28/05/2025
OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT COMMISSIONER OF TSHWANE
282 Suspects Arrested, Stolen Vehicle Recovered During Operation Shanela in Tshwane
On Saturday, 24 May 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tshwane, in their quest to clamp down on crime, conducted a high-impact operation with Operation Shanela. The focus of this operation was the policing precinct of Ga-Rankuwa.
With the District Commissioner of Tshwane, Major-General Samuel Thine as the overall commander, the operation brought together various law enforcement and community safety partners, including members of SAPS, the Department of Home Affairs, Tshwane Metro Police Department, Gauteng Traffic Police, Gauteng Traffic Wardens, and the local Community Policing Forum.
The coordinated effort resulted in the arrest of 282 suspects for a range of criminal offences. This success reflects ongoing strategic deployments and intensified visibility operations aimed at rooting out crime and apprehending wanted suspects.
Tshwane District detectives were responsible for 229 of the arrests. Among them were, 64 suspects arrested for gender-based violence-related offences, 25 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 16 for fraud, 1 for conspiracy to commit murder, 9 for armed robbery, and 1 for r**e.
A Roadblock and patrols being executed by 2 operational teams across the Ga-Rankuwa area led to the detention of 23 undocumented foreign nationals. These individuals are currently undergoing legal processes by immigration authorities for deportation.
During the operation, 828 individuals and 421 vehicles were searched. Eleven vehicles were verified to ensure they were not stolen, and 15 people were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Targeted patrols at 22 identified hotspots resulted in several additional arrests and fines, including five for public drinking, one for illegal gambling, and two individuals apprehended for possession of a stolen Toyota Fortuner and housebreaking equipment. The vehicle has been impounded for further investigation.
Traffic enforcement units issued 19 AARTO infringement notices, amounting to R8 500 in fines. One suspect was arrested for driving without a licence and resisting arrest.
In a separate incident, high-visibility patrols led to the discovery of a suspicious vehicle. As officers approached, the driver attempted to flee, nearly colliding with Police Officers. A high-speed pursuit ensued, during which the suspect's vehicle caused property damage and endangered other road users. The suspect was ultimately apprehended and faces charges of attempted murder and reckless and negligent driving. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the individual is linked to further criminal activity.
Liquor compliance inspections were conducted at 12 establishments. Five were closed for non-compliance, and a total of 903.611 litres of alcohol was confiscated.
Major-General Thine expressed his appreciation to all participating stakeholders for their dedication, collaboration, and continued commitment to community safety.
Media Enquiries:
Captain Johan van Dyk
Tshwane District Communication Coordinator
Email: [email protected]