Through its high-density operations known as Operation Shanela, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 12 251 suspects during the period between 27 January and 02 February 2025.

“Through Operation Shanela, the SAPS continues to take a bold and decisive approach in dealing with crime in the country,” the South African Police Service said in a statement on Monday. 

Crime fighting activities include: tracking operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, stop and searches, as well as tracing of wanted suspects.

All Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province.

The following arrests were made during the period:

A total of 112 firearms and 1 076 rounds of ammunition were confiscated during this week’s operations. Forty-three hijacked and stolen vehicles were also recovered.

Highlights of major takedowns and other successes include the following:

“Operation Vala Umgodi task teams continue to record commendable successes in the country. Just last week alone, police arrested 34 suspects for illegal mining, and the majority of these suspects were arrested in the Free State province with 26 arrests,” the Police said.

The SAPS seized more than 70 000 counterfeit items valued at over R90 million and arrested 37 suspects of various nationalities during multiple takedown operations, conducted in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal throughout January 2025.

The most wanted and feared Inanda West Gang leader and his accomplice, were fatally shot in a shootout with police at Cottonlands in Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal on 30 January 2025. 

This after police operationalised intelligence about the gang leader and his two accomplices who were driving to Umhlanga, reportedly to collect drugs and ammunition. 

"When police approached their vehicle, the suspects opened fire towards the police and a shootout ensued. The 22-year-old gang leader and his 27-year-old accomplice sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the shootout.

“Police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the state to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country,” the Police said. –