Over 150 suspects arrested in Gauteng for crimes against women and children

Zuko Komisa

Gauteng police arrested 157 suspects for crimes against women and children during the first phase of Operation Shanela II over the weekend.
The crackdown resulted in the apprehension of over 540 additional suspects for serious offences, including murder, rape, and armed robbery.
The arrests send a strong message from Provincial Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni against violence, with all suspects scheduled to appear in court starting Monday.

Gauteng police have announced a major crackdown, arresting 157 suspects wanted in connection with crimes against women and children during the first phase of Operation Shanela II this past weekend.

The arrests were carried out during intensive overnight operations across the province, targeting those linked to gender-based violence (GBV) offences.

In addition to the GBV-related arrests, police apprehended a further 540 suspects wanted for serious and violent crimes, including murder, armed robbery, rape, and sexual assault, bringing the total number of arrests to nearly 700.

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni issued a strong warning to criminals.

“We will not tolerate violence against women and children. Our teams are committed to tracking down suspects and ensuring justice is served,” he stated.

Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi provided a breakdown of the arrests:

Johannesburg District (Alexandra and Bramley): 30 suspects
Tshwane (Silverton and Eesterust): 71 suspects
Westonaria, Sedibeng, and Ekurhuleni Districts: 71 suspects (32 in Westonaria and 39 combined in Sedibeng and Ekurhuleni)

The operations included roadblocks, stop-and-search activities, and liquor compliance inspections, forming part of a “proactive approach to ensure safer communities during the festive season,” Nevhuhwulwi added.

All arrested suspects are scheduled to appear before various Magistrates’ Courts across Gauteng starting from today, Monday.