High-density Operation Shanela nabs over 300 offenders
LIMPOPO – The high-density Operation Shanela, by multi-disciplinary forces in all the five districts of Limpopo province, led to the apprehension of 303 suspects between 1 to 8 April for various offences.
Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, Limpopo Provincial Police spokesperson, revealed that the operation is being intensified through regular roadblocks, stop and searches and the tracing of wanted suspects to ensure the safety and security in the province.
Mashaba indicated that the police made significant confiscations that comprise of 28 boxes of tobacco products worth thousands of rands, the recovery of two motor vehicles, two firearms as well as ammunition, 38 counterfeit goods, three dangerous weapons, 48.3L of alcoholic beverages, and closed down 37 unlicensed liquor premises. Police also arrested 15 of the dealers in the process. The team further arrested 54 suspects for possession of drugs.
“Moreover, six suspects were arrested for house robberies and one for business burglary, seven for murder and 13 for rape. Three were arrested for attempted rape, 14 for assault GBH and 12 for common assault during the circulated wanted suspects’ raids,” explained Mashaba.
He said four suspects were nabbed for malicious damage to property, one under the influence of alcohol and drugs, 27 for contravention of the Immigration Act. The team also successfully traced and arrested over 90 wanted suspects during the week under review.
“Subsequently, 27 scarp-yards or recyclers were also visited. Thirty-five operations were conducted by tracking teams. Sixty-two were conducted by detective units,” added Mashaba.
The Provincial Commissioner of South African Police Service in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe continuously encourages the police to safeguard inhabitants of the province and ensure that criminals are accordingly dealt with as part of crime combating efforts.
The arrested suspects have started to appear at various Magistrates’ courts across the province.
