SAPS officials at Sinoville
By Captain Johan van Dyk
Tshwane District Communication Coordinator
On Thursday, 22 May 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tshwane conducted another high-impact, high-visibility crime-combating initiative under the banner of Operation Shanela, focusing on the Sinoville and Kameeldrift policing precincts.
Led by the District Commissioner of Tshwane, Major-General Samuel Thine, the operation was executed by a multidisciplinary team involving various stakeholders.
The joint efforts yielded significant results, with a total of 328 suspects arrested for a range of criminal offenses.
The operation maintained a strong emphasis on visible policing, with intensified deployments aimed at enforcing liquor compliance and apprehending wanted suspects.
Detectives in the Tshwane District were responsible for 280 of the arrests, including:
Some of the drugs and money cops found on the suspects
85 suspects linked to gender-based violence-related cases, 4 for murder, 2 for attempted murder, 4 for armed robbery, and 3 for rape.
A roadblock in Kameeldrift, supported by tactical teams operating throughout the areas of Kameeldrift and Sinoville, led to the detention of 47 undocumented foreign nationals.
These individuals are currently being processed by immigration officials for deportation.
During the operation, law enforcement personnel searched 652 individuals and 39 vehicles, while 107 vehicles were tested to determine if they were stolen.
Targeted patrols were conducted at 18 identified crime hotspots. One suspect was arrested for possession and dealing in dagga after being found with 1 shopping bag full of dagga and additional 14 ziplock bags of dagga and an undisclosed amount of cash.
Traffic officers issued 104 AARTO infringement notices, totalling R50,750 in fines for various road traffic violations.
Liquor inspections at three establishments confirmed full compliance with the Liquor Act. In addition, six second-hand goods dealers were inspected and fined a total of R19,000 for contraventions of the Second-Hand Goods Act.
Major-General Thine extended his appreciation to all participating role-players for their dedication and commitment in making this operation a success.