Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Limpopo

POLOKWANE - The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has welcomed the apprehension of 1056 suspects during the ongoing high density Operation Shanela which took place from Monday, 08 December 2025 to Sunday, 14 December 2025 across the five Districts. These operations are aimed at intensifying public safety and restoring law and order in our communities.

The suspects were arrested for various offenses, including driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

 ▶️ 139 illegal migrants

 ▶️08 murder

▶️ 04 robbery aggravated

▶️02 attempted murder

▶️ 02 possession of unlicensed firearm

 ▶️02 possession of ammunition

▶️ 16 possession of dangerous weapons

▶️03 dealing in drugs

▶️ 67 illegal dealing in liquor

▶️37 possession of drugs

 ▶️ 12 rape

▶️ 98 assault GBH

 ▶️ 72 Assault common

 ▶️ 09 burglary residence

▶️ 27 malicious damage to property

The arrests were effected through execution of several actions, which included, stop and searches, roadblocks, patrols, vehicle checkpoints, visiting and checking compliance on liquor premises, second hand goods, tracing of wanted suspects.

During the operation, the following items were confiscated

▶️ 02 firearms

▶️ 04 types of vehicles

▶️ 649,459 litres of Alcohol beverages

▶️ 59 Ammunitions

▶️ Cash money R830.00

▶️ 05 cellphones

▶️ 21 dangerous weapons

▶️ 026.528 kg of drugs

▶️ 2001,85 grams of dagga

▶️ 1 liter medicine 

▶️ 966 (packets)of tobacco products

The arrested suspects have already started appearing before different Magistrate’s Courts for various charges.

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has welcomed the involvement of all the role-players for their commitment in ensuring that public safety is not compromised during the festive season.

Ends

Enquiries:
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba
082 451 7180

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