The Ministers of the Justice Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster led a crime prevention outreach in Mthatha

This outreach entailed a community engagement, visiting schools, conducting raids at liquor outlets, conducting stop and searches, roadblocks as well as conducting parolee compliance inspections.

On Friday, 19 September 2025, the cluster held operations led by various government departments, including SAPS, Department of Correctional Services, Department of Home Affairs, and

Municipal Traffic services in the area, which resulted in the following successes:

56 wanted suspects were traced down and arrested for serious and violent crimes such as rape, murder, attempted murder, and armed robberies

45 suspects were arrested for various offenses and other serious crimes

642 vehicles searched

687 people searched

75 illegal immigrants arrested

R35 700 worth of traffic fines were issued

8 dangerous weapons have been seized

1 firearm has been recovered and confiscated

Through Operation Shanela II, the Eastern Cape Province has, since 01 April 2025, confiscated 756 illegal firearms and more than 8000 rounds of ammunition. Of this number, 181 illegal firearms and 1804 rounds of ammunition were seized within the OR Tambo District Municipality.

The Deputy National Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, emphasised that Shanela II operations continue to register commendable progress in the fight against crime and ensure public safety as well as stability.