A firearm that was found during Operation Shanela in Garankuwa photo supplied
By Captain Johan van Dyk
Tshwane District Communication Coordinator
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tshwane, together with various law enforcement partners, successfully conducted Operation Shanela in Ga-Rankuwa on Saturday, 30 August 2025.
This operation forms part of the Tshwane District’s ongoing commitment to reducing crime to acceptable levels, maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to criminal activities, and strengthening public trust within the capital city.
Alcohol seized during Operation Shanela in Garankuwa photo supplied
The operation was led by the District Commissioner of Tshwane, Major-General Samuel Thine, and supported by the SAPS, Department of Home Affairs, Tshwane Metro Police Department, Gauteng Traffic Police, and the Department of Community Safety.
Detectives effected 244 arrests for various criminal offences, including 92 for gender-based violence-related crimes, 4 for murder, 5 for attempted murder, 4 for armed robbery, 10 for rape, 20 for malicious damage to property and 2 for kidnapping.
Additionally, 42 undocumented foreign nationals were detained and handed over to immigration authorities.
Suspect arrested during Operation Shanela photo supplied
Two business owners were arrested and fined for employing illegal immigrants.
During the operation, 794 people and 407 vehicles were searched, resulting in 12 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol.
A total of 33 crime hotspots were patrolled, leading to 5 arrests for public drinking, 2 arrests for illegal gambling, 1 arrest for drug possession and dealing when 47 ziplock bags containing drugs and cash were found in his possession.
1 person was arrest for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition when he could not produce a firearm license or give a reasonable explanation for possessing the firearm.
The firearm will be sent for forensic testing to determine whether it has been used in other crimes.
In addition, a abandoned stolen motor vehicle was recovered with investigations underway to establish the circumstances regarding the vehicle.
Liquor enforcement teams inspected 26 outlets, closing 10 for non-compliance. A total of 1,768,067 ml of liquor and three sound systems were seized.
Major-General Thine extended his appreciation to all role players and law enforcement partners who contributed to the success of the operation.
The SAPS urges members of the public to continue reporting criminal or suspicious activities by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or using the My SAPS App.