Gauteng provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela led the multidisciplinary Operation Shanela in Kempton Park on August 3.
To create a safer environment for citizens, law enforcement agencies recently launched the comprehensive Operation Shanela to crack down on crime.
This strategic drive takes a multifaceted approach, combining cutting-edge technology, community engagement, and targeted interventions to reduce criminal activities in our city.
The operation signified a unified commitment by the police to ensure the well-being and security of all residents.
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Under Operation Shanela, the police implemented rigorous measures to disrupt criminal networks, dismantle illegal activities, and restore peace in our neighbourhoods.
A vital component of the operation was increased police presence in crime-prone areas.
Officers and specialised units conduct regular patrols, actively engage with the community and act as a visible deterrent against criminal activity.
Additionally, the senior management of the Kempton Park SAPS, EMPD, the Johannesburg Tactical Response Team (TRT), the Siyabangena community in blue (CPF) and the Home Affairs Immigration Unit joined the specialised teams.
According to Mawela, they chose Kempton Park to launch the campaign because it was a hub for CITs and had its problems, including home and commercial burglaries, drug trafficking, and robberies.
Mawela said this was not the first time he went to Kempton Park for such operations, and there would be directives he issued to law enforcement to attend.
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“Later on, as part of my monitoring and evaluation, I’ll come back to see whether all the directives I gave were complied with.
“I previously came to Kempton Park, and the crime was high. I said law enforcers should pull up their socks and told them to change their strategy to deal with the issues.”
According to Mawela, Glen Marais was a hotspot for house and business robberies, and the police needed to focus their efforts on such areas.
Another concern he raised was drugs.
“Kempton Park will always be the first entry point for drugs.”
Mawela said in phase two of the operation, police officers would track and trace wanted suspects.
He said he was pleased with the 189 arrests for gender-based violence cases.
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“This is Women’s Month. We need to put more pressure on addressing the threats against women and children.”
Police arrested 35 undocumented persons, and one was taken into custody for having drugs.
“One shebeen was closed down, and one suspected stolen vehicle taken for further investigation. I believe we tried our best and will continue, but I think we can do more to better Kempton Park.”
