Operation Shanela: Striving to Eradicate Crime in Kempton Park

Gauteng’s provincial commissioner, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela, spearheaded the multifaceted Operation Shanela in Kempton Park on August 3rd.

In a concerted effort to enhance citizen safety, law enforcement agencies have recently introduced the comprehensive Operation Shanela, aimed at tackling crime comprehensively.

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This strategic endeavour employs a multifaceted approach that combines cutting-edge technology, community engagement, and targeted interventions to curb criminal activities within our city.

The operation symbolises a unified dedication by the police to safeguard the well-being and security of all residents.

Under Operation Shanela, the police have implemented stringent measures to disrupt criminal networks, dismantle illegal activities, and restore tranquillity in our neighbourhoods.

A pivotal operation element involved an intensified police presence in crime-prone zones.

Officers and specialised units conduct regular patrols, actively engage with the community, and act as a visible deterrent against criminal behaviour.

Furthermore, senior management from Kempton Park SAPS, EMPD, the Johannesburg Tactical Response Team (TRT), the Siyabangena community in blue (CPF), and the Home Affairs Immigration Unit have joined forces with specialised teams.

According to Mawela, Kempton Park was chosen as the launch site for this campaign due to its status as a hub for CITs and its various issues, including home and commercial burglaries, drug trafficking, and robberies.

Mawela noted that this wasn’t his first time leading such operations in Kempton Park, and he intends to issue directives for law enforcement’s continued engagement.

“Later on, as part of my monitoring and evaluation, I’ll come back to see whether all the directives I gave were complied with,” Mawela remarked. “I previously came to Kempton Park when crime rates were high. I emphasised that law enforcers should enhance their efforts and shift their strategies to tackle these issues.”

Mawela highlighted Glen Marais as a hotspot for house and business robberies, underscoring the need for targeted efforts in such areas.

Another concern he addressed was drug-related issues. “Kempton Park will always be the first entry point for drugs,” he cautioned.

Mawela revealed that phase two of the operation will involve tracking and tracing wanted suspects.

He expressed contentment with the 189 arrests related to gender-based violence cases. “This is Women’s Month. We must apply more pressure to combat threats against women and children.”

During the operation, police apprehended 35 undocumented individuals, and one was taken into custody for drug possession.

“One shebeen was shut down, and a suspected stolen vehicle was impounded for further investigation. While I believe we’ve put forth our best effort and will continue to do so, I am convinced that we can do more to improve Kempton Park,” Mawela concluded.

Source: Operation Shanela aims to ‘eliminate’ crime in Kempton Park

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Photo: Supplied by Kempton Express