Police arrested 362 suspects during Operation Shanela in Pretoria North on Thursday.
The operation was led by Tshwane district commissioner, Major-General Samuel Thine in collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies and community organisations.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Johan van Dyk said the operation was aimed at combatting criminal and drug-related activities.
He said it focused on high-visibility patrols, inspections of liquor outlets and second-hand dealers, and targeted searches in identified hotspots.
According to Van Dyk, during the first phase, police arrested 293 suspects for serious offences.
The offences included 131 suspects for gender-based violence, two for murder, two for attempted murder, six suspects for armed robbery and seven for rape.
Image: supplied
“The integrated law enforcement teams patrolled high-crime areas in the Pretoria Moot and Villeria areas, focusing on compliance enforcement within liquor premises and other crime hotspots,” said Van Dyk.
He said 59 undocumented immigrants were apprehended and will remain in custody pending legal proceedings after which they will face deportation.
He added that four individuals were also arrested and fined for employing illegal immigrants.
“The operation also included the inspection of 1 193 individuals and 314 vehicles to verify they were not stolen.”
Van Dyk added that 20 targeted premises were searched as part of the initiative.
He said during the search, four suspects were arrested after drugs and other substances, including five bags of crystal meth, two tubes of cocaine, and 1 Mandrax tablet, were found in their possession.
“One suspect was arrested for driving under the influence of narcotics and possession of a dangerous weapon,” he said.
“Another suspect was detained for possession of 2 450 packets of illicit cigarettes.”
Van Dyk added that enforcement efforts resulted in the tracing and arrest of four additional suspects for assault related to domestic violence.
He said in terms of traffic violations, 132 fines totalling R60 700 were issued, and six taxis were impounded for non-compliance with the Road Traffic Act.
“Major-General Thine expressed his gratitude to all involved in the success of Operation Shanela, commending the dedication and contributions of all role-players.”
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