In a significant crackdown on illicit activities, the SAPS in Mpumalanga has successfully seized contraband goods worth more than R2.5 million during Operation Shanela in Hazyview. The operation led to the arrest of two men, aged 30 and 35, and a 61-year-old woman on, 22 August 2024.

The comprehensive team, comprising members from various units including the Tactical Response Team (TRT), K9 Unit, Public Order Policing (POP), Flying Squad, Mounted Unit, Visible Policing, Police Bikers, and Detective Services, coordinated a series of checks at liquor outlets in the Calcutta area. Following a tip-off about a truck carrying illegal goods, the officers traced the vehicle to a residential property in Hazyview.

Inside a large storage facility at the property, officers uncovered a significant stash of illicit items, including cigarettes, valued at over R2.5 million. During the operation, the team also recovered 10 live rounds of ammunition. The suspects now face charges of unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of illicit goods.

Currently detained, the trio awaits their upcoming court appearance. The ongoing investigation aims to unearth further connections to illegal trade networks.

Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, praised the public’s cooperation and the rapid action of the police units involved. “Our commitment to rooting out criminality in our community remains firm. This operation is a testament to the effectiveness of community-police collaboration. We thank the community members for their invaluable tips and assure them of our continued efforts to ensure safety and uphold the law,” stated General Mkhwanazi. The successful operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat illegal trading and enforce security in the region.