SAPS cracks down on crime in Vanderbijlpark and Boipatong during Operation Shanela

SAPS in Sedibeng District successfully conducted Operation Shanela in Vanderbijlpark/Boipatong from 21 May to 22 May. Through a multi-layered crime-combatting approach, combining intelligence-led policing, detective work and heightened Police Visiblity enforcement, the operation resulted in a total of 153 arrests.

The arrests were made possible by focused detective deployments, which led to the apprehension of 110 suspects linked to various serious crimes. Additionally, significant exhibits were recovered, including Mandrax tablets, Crystal Meth, Nyaope sachets, Astrapain syrup, and over 800 sticks of illicit cigarettes.

As part of the operation, a social crime prevention campaign was conducted at Suiderlig High School, where 1 200 learners were screened for safety. A public engagement was also held in the Vanderbijlpark CBD, where business owners and community members discussed strategies to curb crime.

Furthermore, an awareness campaign was conducted at the local taxi rank, distributing over 200 informative pamphlets on important topics such as reporting Gender-Based Violence and contacting SAPS management. The operation also included a roadblock, where 42 traffic fines were issued, amounting to R27 900, and two second-hand goods dealers were fined R10 000 for non-compliance.