PARKTOWN: Saturday, 12 August 2023: Operation Shanela continues to sweep through the streets of Gauteng. Today, 12 August 2023, the operation was in full swing at Johannesburg CBD, targeting illicit and counterfeit goods, hijacked and abandoned buildings and liquor compliance inspections.
The Provincial Commissioner of Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela was joined by the Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele and National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola as they led the multi-disciplinary forces of different law enforcement agencies which included the SAPS, JMPD, Traffic, SARS, Department of Home Affairs and Labour.
During the operation, a number of buildings were raided and liquor outlets were inspected for compliance. Several people were also arrested for various crimes such as dealing in drugs, illegal trade of counterfeit goods, illegal gambling, contravention of the Medical Act, dealing with liquor without a license, including undocumented persons.
Counterfeit goods to the value of more than R1million and unregistered and illicit medicine with an estimated street value of R1.4million were also seized. The operation which aims at stamping the authority of the State and enhancing overall police visibility will continue to be conducted in throughout the province.