Parktown, Gauteng - Operation Shanela, a comprehensive law enforcement initiative, has resulted in the arrest of more than 1100 suspects for various crimes across Gauteng province. This multidisciplinary operation, involving an array of law enforcement agencies, underscores a significant effort to enhance public safety and security throughout the region.

According to South African Police Service, Operation Shanela is a collaboration between the Metro Police, Department of Traffic, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Community Safety, Crime Prevention Wardens, Community Police Forum, and private security companies. It has been executed across all five districts of Gauteng, employing a range of tactics including roadblocks, stop and searches, compliance inspections for liquor and second-hand goods, vehicle checkpoints, and patrols.

During the operation, authorities managed to close down 20 unlicensed liquor outlets and seized a substantial amount of liquor. Among the 1100 suspects apprehended, 910 were identified as wanted individuals captured during a province-wide operation to trace suspects with outstanding warrants. The law enforcement initiative has led to some of these suspects being released after paying fines, while others are scheduled to appear in court starting from 19 February 2024, within the jurisdiction of their alleged crimes.