Police in Mpumalanga have intensified their crackdown on crime, with Operation Shanela II continuing to deliver impressive results across the province. Between 2 and 5 October 2025, law enforcement teams executed 120 targeted operations, leading to 1,380 arrests and numerous seizures.

The large-scale operation saw police conduct searches at 161 licensed liquor outlets, inspect 12 second-hand dealerships, and visit 365 informal businesses, 165 farms, and 26 mines.

According to the police, those arrested face a range of charges, including murder, rape, robbery, drug possession, and the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Among the arrests were:

· 14 for murder,

· 22 for rape,

· 8 for aggravated robbery,

· 208 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and

· 129 undocumented immigrants.

Other offences included the illegal dealing in liquor, drug trafficking, possession of counterfeit goods, and illegal mining activities.

Police also seized a variety of items during the operation, including 14 handguns, one shotgun, 107 rounds of ammunition, over 73 kilograms of dagga, and various other drugs such as crystal meth, crack cocaine, and nyaope. They also recovered 12 stolen vehicles and contraband goods worth an estimated R770,000.

Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended all officers involved for their dedication and teamwork.

“The dedication and collaboration shown during these operations are a clear sign that we are united in our mission to rid Mpumalanga of criminal activities and ensure the safety of our communities,” said Major General Mkhwanazi.

Operation Shanela II forms part of a nationwide crime prevention strategy aimed at dismantling criminal networks and enhancing community safety through high-visibility policing and targeted enforcement.