In a sweeping crackdown on crime across South Africa, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested a staggering 15,481 suspects in just one week, as part of its ongoing Operation Shanela. The arrests, made between 19 and 25 May 2025, reflect intensified efforts by law enforcement to tackle serious and violent crime.
Among the most alarming statistics were the 255 arrests related to rape, with KwaZulu-Natal reporting the highest number—116 cases. SAPS says the arrests underscore its commitment to combating gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), particularly as the country observes Child Protection Month.
“Many of the rape cases involved vulnerable groups, including children,” said SAPS national spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Van Wyk. “These arrests send a strong message that crimes against women and children will be met with decisive action.”
In a significant drug bust, SAPS apprehended a 39-year-old Brazilian national at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday, 23 May. The man, en route to Benin from São Paulo, was intercepted during a routine search, and cocaine worth approximately R1.4 million was found concealed around his legs.
Key Arrest Figures from Operation Shanela:
* Illegal possession of firearms: 119
* Drug dealing: 210 (including 50 in Gauteng and 41 in the Western Cape)
* Illegal liquor trading: 614 (including 239 in KZN and 117 in Mpumalanga)
* Drug possession: 1,634 (with 733 cases in the Western Cape alone)
* Murder: 127 (Eastern Cape: 35; KZN: 30)
* Driving under the influence: 677 (Gauteng: 226; Mpumalanga: 122)
Confiscations and Recoveries Included:
* 87 hijacked or stolen vehicles
* 158 illegal firearms (28 more than the previous week)
* 1,505 rounds of ammunition
* Over 24,000 counterfeit goods, valued at more than R20 million, seized in a Johannesburg raid led by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit
SAPS praised the continued dedication of its officers and collaborative partners in achieving these results, emphasizing the crucial role communities play in combating crime.
“The fight against crime cannot be won by police alone,” said Van Wyk. “We urge the public to report any suspicious activity.”
Community members can report crimes anonymously via the MySAPS App or call Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
No comments:
Post a Comment