A large-scale, multidisciplinary crime-prevention operation in the Tshwane District resulted in the arrest of 345 suspects on Thursday, 11 June. Spearheaded by Tshwane District Commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine, the operation targeted crime hotspots in the Ga-Rankuwa and Mabopane policing precincts, dealing a significant blow to various criminal activities.
The operation brought together multiple law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders, including the Department of Home Affairs, the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD), Gauteng Traffic Police and Community Policing Forums (CPFs). The coordinated approach strengthened the initiative’s impact and highlighted the value of collaborative crime-fighting efforts.
District detectives carried out intensive tracing operations from Wednesday evening into the early hours of Thursday, resulting in the arrest of 273 wanted suspects linked to serious and violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder and armed robbery.
Compliance inspections yielded further results with the police detaining 53 undocumented immigrants, who were handed over to immigration officials. Two second-hand goods dealerships were found to be operating illegally in contravention of the Second-Hand Goods Act and were fined.
Liquor enforcement teams inspected 20 outlets and closed eight for violations of the Liquor Act. During the raids, police confiscated 471 bottles of 830ml liquor and seized an illegal gambling machine. High-density patrols and roadblocks led to the search of 658 individuals and 321 vehicles.
Traffic officers issued 138 AARTO infringement notices to the value of R68 400 and impounded 23 taxis for contravening the National Road Traffic Act.
In a separate breakthrough, three suspects were arrested for drug possession and dealing. Police recovered 19 ziplock bags containing various drugs, along with an undisclosed amount of cash believed to be proceeds of illegal activities.
Major-General Thine praised participating members and stakeholders for their “commitment and professionalism”. He emphasised that “sustained collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community structures remains key in the ongoing fight against crime and in ensuring safer communities throughout the Tshwane District.”
He said the operation reflects a renewed push for integrated policing strategies in the City of Tshwane, combining targeted tracing, compliance inspections and visible policing to enhance public safety.
