Gauteng: Gauteng police have arrested 1,134 suspects and recovered two unlicensed firearms and ammunition during Operation Shanela II, which was conducted across the Gauteng province over the weekend.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, led a high-density provincial Operation Shanela II in Randfontein and Mohlakeng policing precincts in the West Rand District. The operation saw significant arrests and recovery of illegal items, highlighting the ongoing efforts to curb crime in the region.

During the operation at the roadblock in Randfontein, police arrested 24 suspects for driving under the influence of alcohol, 10 illegal immigrants, one suspect for dealing in drugs, and 16 suspects for possession of drugs, the South African Police Service (SAPS) stated in a release on Sunday. Additionally, two suspects were arrested for selling liquor without a license, and one for possession of gold-bearing material. The operation also led to the closure of two liquor outlets for non-compliance with regulations.

Detectives involved in the operation arrested 786 wanted suspects, including 149 individuals linked to crimes against women and children. The operation was a collaborative effort involving the SAPS, the Department of Home Affairs, traffic law enforcement agencies, Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, Community Policing Forums (CPFs), and private security companies.

Gauteng police reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents through continuous crime prevention operations aimed at reducing crime and maintaining law and order across the province.