The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced the arrest of 919 suspects during a week-long, high-impact Operation Shanela, carried out from Monday, 28 April to Sunday, 4 May 2025. The coordinated law enforcement effort also led to the seizure of illegal firearms, drugs, liquor, and dangerous weapons.
Major Arrests and Contraband Seized
The arrests included suspects charged with:
- 18 for murder
- 8 for attempted murder
- 4 for robberies
- 19 for burglaries
- 103 for assault
- 3 for drug dealing
- 90 for drug possession
- 17 for illegal liquor trading
- 46 for driving under the influence
- 33 for malicious damage to property
- 7 for illegal firearm possession
Additionally, 43 illegal immigrants were apprehended for violating Section 49 of the Immigration Act (Act No. 13 of 2002). They are currently being processed through the legal system and face deportation.
DNA Links Lead to 355 Wanted Criminals
One of the most notable successes of the week was the identification and arrest of 355 suspects who had previously been circulated as wanted criminals. These arrests were made possible through forensic DNA profiling.
Illegal Firearms Traced to Past Crimes
In Tshidilamolomo and Atamelang, intelligence-led operations led to:
- The arrest of seven suspects.
- The confiscation of three firearms, reportedly stolen during a housebreaking incident in September 2024.
Court Appearances and Charges:
- Fredy Tsokonya (33), Donald Kamanyane (42), Hendrick Lethobeng (22), Aobakwe Mogwasi (18), and Tshepang Tsokonya (27) appeared before the Molopo Magistrates’ Court on housebreaking and theft charges. All were remanded until 9 May 2025.
- Lawrence Rambo Gabonewe (35), found with an illegal firearm in Atamelang, was granted R2000 bail and will reappear on 9 May 2025.
- Cacious Patrick Kamanyane (38), arrested with two unlicensed firearms in Tshidilamolomo, was granted R1000 bail. His next court date is 30 June 2025.
Community Urged to Remain Vigilant
SAPS continues to call on the public to assist in fighting crime:
📞 Report crimes anonymously to Crime Stop: 08600 10111
📱 Download and use the MySAPS app for tips and updates
🚨 Report extortion via the dedicated hotline: 080 091 1011