The South African Police Service (SAPS) continues its determined fight against crime through its high-density operations known as Operation Shanela, with remarkable success. Between Monday, January 6, and Sunday, January 12, 2025, the operation led to the arrest of 16,718 suspects, a significant achievement that underscores SAPS’s unwavering commitment to tackling crime across the country.
Operation Shanela is a comprehensive initiative that targets a wide array of criminal activities, including murder, rape, illegal firearms possession, and drug-related offences. The operation utilizes a variety of crime-fighting strategies such as tracing operations, roadblocks, high-visibility patrols, and stop-and-search actions. The focus is on not only apprehending wanted suspects but also preventing crime through proactive, visible policing. All operations under Shanela are coordinated by the Provincial Commissioner in each region, ensuring a localized and effective response to crime.
A particularly notable success during this period occurred in Sandringham, Gauteng, where SAPS worked in collaboration with the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), and a private security company. Acting on a tip-off from concerned neighbours about suspicious activities at a local residence, the authorities launched a joint operation that led to the arrest of three Ethiopian nationals involved in a range of serious crimes, including human trafficking, kidnapping, extortion, and violating the Immigration Act.
Upon searching the house, the officers discovered 26 Ethiopian nationals being held captive inside, an alarming reminder of the scope of human trafficking taking place within the country. In addition to the arrests, a pistol and a magazine were confiscated from the scene, further strengthening the case against the suspects. This operation serves as a stark example of the risks posed by organised crime networks and the crucial role of community involvement in tipping off authorities to suspicious activities.
Launched in May 2023, Operation Shanela has been a cornerstone of SAPS’s strategy to combat serious and organised crime, with impressive results to date. While the operation has been focused on high-profile cases such as human trafficking, it also addresses broader criminal activity affecting communities, aiming to make South Africa safer for all citizens.
The success of these operations is a testament to the ongoing efforts by SAPS and its law enforcement partners to restore order and tackle crime at every level. By utilizing coordinated action, including the involvement of various police agencies and private sector partners, SAPS continues to demonstrate its ability to dismantle criminal networks and make significant strides in reducing crime across the country. As Operation Shanela moves forward, its achievements highlight the importance of persistence and collaboration in the ongoing battle against crime in South Africa.
