Cape Town: The government has expressed approval for the advancements made in combating crime through initiatives such as Operation Shanela and Operation Vala Umgodi. Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, highlighted that approximately 239 suspects were apprehended nationwide between June 1 and June 15, 2025, under Operation Vala Umgodi.

According to South African Government News Agency, during a media briefing on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting, Ntshavheni explained that the suspects were detained for illegal mining and various other crimes, including attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of unpolished diamonds, unlawful possession of explosives, and violations of the Immigration Act of 2002.

Operation Vala Umgodi, which commenced in December 2023, has resulted in the arrest of over 27,000 suspects and the confiscation of more than 600 firearms, including imitation firearms (toy guns), and 16,000 rounds of ammunition, as stated by Ntshavheni.

Ntshavheni further reported that between June 16 and June 22, 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS), through Operation Shanela, arrested 15,372 suspects. Significant arrests included 2,400 wanted individuals linked to serious and violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, and robbery, as well as 159 for murder, 100 for rape, 1,173 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 2,602 for drug possession, and 64 for hijacked or stolen vehicles.

According to SAPS, these achievements are the result of proactive policing strategies, including high-visibility patrols, roadblocks, stop-and-search measures, and intelligence-led suspect tracing.

SAPS emphasized their ongoing commitment to comprehensive, multidisciplinary crime prevention through Operation Shanela and similar efforts. The National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, commended the dedication of all police officers and partners who worked collaboratively with the police.