Operation Kukula Shanela in Limpopo has delivered a major blow to crime, resulting in the arrest of 949 suspects and the recovery of 11 unlicensed firearms in a sweeping crackdown across high-density areas.
According to Provincial Police Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng, the operation, which ran from March 10 to March 16, was a success. It involved various SAPS units, including the South African National Defence Force, Traffic Police, and the Community Police Forum (CPF).
Thakeng stated that the operation targeted suspects involved in various crimes, including armed robbery, murder, attempted murder, car hijacking, illegal mining, immigration violations, and the illegal possession of firearms.
“The suspects were charged with various offences, including two for armed robbery, 4 for murder and attempted murder, 2 for car hijacking cases, 11 for illegal possession of firearms, 14 for possession of dangerous weapons, 42 for malicious property damage, 19 for attempted rape, 6 for illegal dealing in liquor, 8 for business robbery, 14 for robbery suspect residential, and 99 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).”
Thakeng also stated that a roadblock was set up, where vehicle checkpoints were established to intercept suspects and seize illegal goods. Stop-and-search procedures were conducted to target potential offenders, alongside extensive efforts to trace wanted suspects. As a result, two car-hijacking suspects were successfully apprehended during the operation.
“The operation was executed through high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints, stop and search, tracing of wanted suspects, and compliance with inspection of scrap yards.”
Thakeng also mentioned that officers were able to seize 380.56 litres of alcohol, 29,347 kilograms of dagga (marijuana), and cash amounting to R30,266.00.
He added that several suspects have already begun appearing in different magistrate courts for various crimes.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has commended all SAPS members and stakeholders for their dedication and efforts throughout the operations conducted within the province.
The Star