More than 16 000 suspects arrested in nationwide crime crackdown
Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi says the operations dealt a significant blow to illicit trade.
More than 16,000 suspects were arrested in a nationwide crime crackdown conducted by South African Police Service (SAPS) between August 31 and September 6. The operation, known as Shanela, resulted in the seizure of illicit cigarettes worth over R41 million, as well as copper and metal valued at R20 million. Additionally, police recovered 138 unlicensed firearms and more than 2,000 rounds of ammunition.
SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi stated that the operations significantly disrupted illicit trade and counterfeit goods. In Gauteng and Mpumalanga, law enforcement agencies arrested 22 suspects and seized contraband goods worth more than R4 million. The Hawks and Customs also seized illicit and counterfeit cigarettes worth over R41 million during a joint operation in Durban. The SAPS continues to intensify its nationwide crackdown on crime.
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