Through the high-density operations, known as Operation Shanela, the South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested 12 892 suspects between Monday, 17 March, and Sunday, 23 March.
“SAPS continues to take a bold and decisive approach in dealing with crime in the country,” stated police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi. “These crime fighting activities include tracking operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, stop and searches as well as tracing of wanted suspects.”
During the week of 17 to 23 March, the following arrests were made:
- Wanted Suspects: 1,753 individuals were arrested for serious and violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder, rape, and business/home robberies.
- Murder: 167 suspects were apprehended, with the highest numbers in KwaZulu-Natal (45) and the Western Cape (42).
- Attempted Murder: 123 arrests were made.
- Rape: 165 suspects were arrested, including 54 in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Assault GBH: 1,794 suspects were taken into custody.
- Drug-Related Crimes: 203 drug dealers were arrested, mostly in the Eastern Cape (47).
- Drug-Related Crimes: 1,507 individuals were caught in possession of drugs, primarily in the Western Cape (689).
- Illegal Firearms: 115 suspects were arrested, with KwaZulu-Natal recording the highest number (37).
- Human Trafficking: 10 suspects were apprehended.
- Drunken Driving: 432 arrests were made, with the most arrests taking place in KwaZulu-Natal (121).
Police registered the following recoveries and confiscation successes:
- Firearms: 119 seized.
- Ammunition: 1,335 rounds confiscated.
- Stolen Vehicles: 76 hijacked or stolen vehicles recovered.
“Police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the state to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country,” stated the spokesperson.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
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