Over 1,100 Arrested,Five Firearms Recovered, Multiple Criminal Activities Disrupted During Joint Operation

A total of 1,153 suspects were arrested, and five firearms were recovered during the successful implementation of Operation Shanela (Kukula).

The operation took place from Monday, April 21 to Sunday, April 27, 2025, across Limpopo Province.

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The operation, a joint effort by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and various stakeholders, aimed at tackling a wide range of criminal activities, from drug possession to illegal mining.

Key Arrests

Throughout the week-long operation, law enforcement authorities arrested individuals linked to numerous serious crimes, including murder, robbery, assault, and illegal possession of firearms. Among the 1,153 arrests, notable actions included;

• 292 arrests related to contravention of the Immigration Act
• 4 individuals arrested for murder
• 30 arrests for assault GBH (grievous bodily harm)
• 39 drivers apprehended for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• 17 arrests for possession of dangerous weapons

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Furthermore, authorities seized five illegal firearms and several rounds of ammunition, underscoring the ongoing battle against illegal arms circulation in the province.

Several individuals were also apprehended for participating in organized crimes, including business burglary and residential robbery.

Operations

The operation involved intense coordination between SAPS units such as the Tactical Response Team (TRT), K9 Unit, Detective Services, and local police forces.

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In addition to the arrests, the operation included significant efforts to address community safety and prevent further criminal activities.

• 19 unlicensed liquor outlets were shut down
• 29 roadblocks were set up to curb drunk driving and vehicle-related crimes
• 15 tracing operations targeted wanted suspects
• 839 farms and 136 formal businesses were inspected for compliance with regulations

The operation also extended its reach to informal businesses, with 4,384 spaza shops and second-hand dealers across Limpopo thoroughly examined to curb illicit activities such as unlicensed trading and stolen goods circulation.

Future Safety Plans

Limpopo’s Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police, Major General Samuel Manala, expressed appreciation for the exceptional efforts of all involved, including the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Community Policing Forums (CPF), and the Traffic Departments.

“The dedication of these units has significantly contributed to reducing crime and maintaining peace in the province,” Major General Manala said.

The arrested suspects have already started appearing in various Magistrate’s Courts across Limpopo, and authorities are committed to continuing these high-impact operations aimed at reducing crime in the province.

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