The police efforts to reduce crime and eradicate criminal elements across the Free State continue to yield significant results. In the past week alone, more than 1,210 individuals were arrested during high-density, multi-disciplinary #OperationShanela2.
All five districts in the province participated in the intelligence-led Operation Shanela, ensuring a targeted approach to bringing offenders to book. The operation focused heavily on “stubborn” crimes, including contact and property-related offences. Under contact crime, 2 were arrested for murder, 8 for attempted murder, and 118 for assault, while 5 suspects were arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm. Under property-related crimes, 37 suspects were apprehended for malicious damage to property.
On drug-related crimes, 107 suspects were arrested. Confiscated substances included mandrax, crystal meth, nyaope, khat, cocaine and heroin. Regarding driving under the influence of liquor and traffic-related crimes, 53 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of liquor, while 267 spot fines were issued in conjunction with the Traffic Department.
Bloemfontein, 8 March 2026: The Provincial #AntiGangUnit continues to dismantle criminal networks. In multiple operations, the unit successfully removed prohibited firearms and intercepted significant drug consignments. Notably, on Saturday, 07 March, a targeted raid led to the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of an unlicensed firearm.
Harrismith, 7 March 2026: Acting on community tips, the Welkom Anti-Gang Unit arrested three suspects found selling drugs at business premises and on the streets.
Heilbron, 8 March 2026: Three suspects (aged 27 to 33) are expected to appear in the Heilbron Magistrate’s Court following their arrest for possession of a suspected stolen vehicle.
As part of the operation’s broader scope, teams conducted inspections at second-hand goods shops, scrap metal dealers, and tuckshops.
Tuckshop inspections: 926 premises were visited. These inspections and related sweeps led to the arrest of 1,095 illegal immigrants.
The teams are successfully impacting drug-infested areas and removing illegal weapons through dedicated intelligence and valuable community assistance.
#fightingcrime
