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14 273 suspects were arrested across the country in a week-long operation

Zuko Komisa

  • Police arrested over 14,000 suspects in a week-long operation.
  • The crackdown targeted serious crimes, drugs, and illegal firearms.
  • Authorities recovered numerous weapons and stolen vehicles.
14 273 suspects were arrested across the country in the last week
Image | Adobe Stock

South African law enforcement has delivered a significant blow to criminal networks across the country, with over 14,000 suspects arrested in a massive week-long operation.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) announced today that “Operation Shanela,” conducted between July 21st and July 27th, 2025, resulted in the apprehension of 14,273 individuals.

A substantial portion of those arrested were high-priority targets, with 2,081 wanted suspects taken into custody for their alleged involvement in serious and violent crimes. These include offenses such as business and house robberies, car hijackings, murder, rape, and attempted murder.

The breakdown of arrests highlights the wide-ranging impact of the operation:

  • 172 suspects were arrested on murder charges.
  • 138 individuals were apprehended for attempted murder.
  • 170 suspects face charges of rape.
  • A staggering 1,598 arrests were made for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Beyond violent crimes, police also targeted drug-related offenses and illegal firearms. 324 suspects were arrested for drug dealing, while 1,376 others were held for drug possession. A total of 119 individuals were apprehended for the illegal possession of firearms, with 45 of these arrests occurring in KwaZulu-Natal. Additionally, 672 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The operation also yielded significant recoveries. Police successfully confiscated 140 firearms and 1,720 rounds of ammunition. Furthermore, 81 hijacked or stolen vehicles were recovered during the week-long blitz.

In a statement released on Tuesday, SAPS reaffirmed its commitment to public safety.

“The South African Police Service remains resolute in its nationwide operations to combat and prevent criminal activities, threatening public safety and sabotaging South Africa’s economic infrastructure,” the statement read.

This latest operation underscores the ongoing efforts by SAPS to tackle crime head-on and ensure a safer environment for all South Africans.

READ NEXT: Lerato Kganyago speaks up about stalkers who’ve been following her: ‘They work with the police’

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