The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State, under the leadership of Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, successfully concluded Operation Shanela II, which ran from Monday, 11 August until Sunday, 17 August 2025. The intensified week-long operation forms part of the national crime-combatting strategy, aimed at heightening police visibility, curbing violent crime, and dismantling criminal networks throughout the province.
The impact of the operation was evident in the number of arrests, recoveries and seizures that were made possible by proactive police action. During the period, 1,179 arrests were made and 315 people were arrested during tracing operations by the detectives, reflecting the efficiency of integrated strategies. Among these, 78 drug-related arrests were recorded, with suspects apprehended in Caleb Motshabi Informal Settlement, Kagisanong, Ehrlichpark, Dewetsdorp and other targeted hotspots. Police members seized mandrax tablets, dagga and other narcotics, preventing their circulation within communities. In Sasolburg, detectives arrested a couple, aged 20 and 25, for illegally selling Schedule 5 substances, while in Winburg, a 37-year-old man was caught in possession of Schedule 4 and 6 veterinary medicine worth R20 000 and 420 rounds of high-calibre ammunition. These arrests highlight the SAPS’s determination to dismantle drug distribution channels and prevent the proliferation of unlawful substances.
Equally significant were actions taken against offenders driving under the influence of alcohol, with 62 motorists arrested across the Free State. These arrests were achieved through well-coordinated roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints, ensuring the safety of all road users while holding offenders accountable. The strict enforcement of road safety laws underscores the police’s ongoing commitment to reducing alcohol-related fatalities and accidents on provincial roads.
Another notable success under Operation Shanela II was the arrest of two males, aged 19 and 44, by Sasolburg Highway Patrol for possession of illicit cigarettes worth millions. The suspects were apprehended during a vehicle checkpoint on the R82 near Country Butchery, Viljoensdrif. This breakthrough demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted operations in intercepting illicit trade and safeguarding the economy.
High-visibility operations also featured strongly, particularly when members of Operation Basadi conducted a roadblock on the N1 near Springfontein. Women in blue carried out detailed inspections, confiscated illegal items, and distributed awareness pamphlets on Gender-Based Violence and extortion. Several arrests were made, including suspects charged with the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition and contravention of the Immigration Act.
The swift activation of the Rural Safety Plan led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle in Jacobsdal, valued at approximately R500 000, and the arrest of a 28-year-old suspect within hours of the theft being reported. This highlights the efficiency of coordinated responses between SAPS, rural safety structures, and private security stakeholders.
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane praised the dedication of SAPS members and supporting agencies, emphasising that the successes of Operation Shanela II stem directly from visible policing and decisive enforcement. “Through teamwork and determination, we have disrupted criminal activity, taken drugs off our streets, and made our roads safer by removing intoxicated drivers. These results show our unwavering commitment to creating a safer Free State for all.”
Communities are encouraged to partner with the SAPS by reporting criminal activities through Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App. All information will be treated in confidence.
Operation Shanela 2 yields significant successes in the Free Statehttps://t.co/Wv0kAR3qr3#ArriveAlive #Crime @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/VryCd7Wa47
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) August 18, 2025
