Mthatha: The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster’s Crime Prevention Outreach in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, has led to the arrest of over 100 individuals. The programme, spearheaded by JCPS Ministers, encompassed various initiatives such as community engagements, school visits, raids on liquor outlets, stop-and-search operations, roadblocks, and parolee compliance inspections.

According to South African Government News Agency, joint operations were conducted on Friday by multiple government departments, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Correctional Services, the Department of Home Affairs, and municipal traffic services. These operations resulted in the apprehension of 56 wanted suspects for serious crimes like rape, murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery. Furthermore, 45 individuals were detained for other offences, and authorities conducted searches on 642 vehicles and 687 individuals.

Additionally, 75 undocumented foreign nationals were taken into custody, and traffic fines totaling R35,700 were issued. Authorities also seized eight dangerous weapons and recovered one firearm. Moreover, 23 suspects were arrested for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and two individuals were detained for selling liquor without a licence.

The operations are part of Operation Shanela II, under which Eastern Cape police have confiscated 756 illegal firearms and over 8,000 rounds of ammunition since 1 April 2025. Of these, 181 firearms and 1,804 rounds of ammunition were seized within the OR Tambo District Municipality. Deputy National Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, emphasized that Operation Shanela II continues to make headway in crime reduction efforts. General Mosikili noted that the ongoing operations, which emphasize high-visibility policing, stop-and-searches, and the tracing of wanted suspects, have led to numerous arrests and the recovery of firearms, drugs, and stolen property nationwide.