Mthatha: Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, launched Operation Shanela 2 in Mthatha on Friday, 27 June 2025. This follows the national launch in Cape Town the previous day. The operation intensifies the focus on identified priority crimes, including stock theft, murder, and robbery.
According to South African Police Service, the launch commenced with a parade of law enforcement officers. Major General Kupiso expressed deep appreciation for the officers' exceptional work during the recent disaster that struck Mthatha. "This was not just duty; it was extraordinary service delivered with compassion and unwavering commitment. Thank you for ensuring that in the Eastern Cape's darkest hour, our law enforcement officers remain pillars of strength and compassion," stated Major General Kupiso.
Outlining Operation Shanela 2, Major General Kupiso emphasized: "This is not merely a continuation; it is a deliberate escalation of our coordinated, high-impact strategy to reclaim our communities from the grip of serious and violent crime." The operation seeks to create a safe environment free from fear, targeting crimes such as murder, robbery, gender-based violence, drug infestation, and gang warfare.
Early successes were recorded as officers executed the operation. In Sikwayini, Nobambela A/A (Sulenkama), police arrested two male suspects for unlawful possession of 24 mixed goats suspected to be stolen. The 26-year-old homestead owner and his accomplice could not produce proof of ownership and will be charged with stock theft in Qumbu Magistrate's Court.
In Kwanyuswa, Lusikisiki, a Tactical Response Team (TRT) arrested a 46-year-old man for possession of an unlicensed firearm. A 9mm pistol and six live rounds were recovered, belonging to a 67-year-old Lusikisiki woman who had not reported it lost or stolen. The investigation is ongoing.
In Bajodini, Qumbu, TRT members arrested a 39-year-old male suspect for unlawful possession of an unlicensed revolver and ammunition. All arrested suspects have been charged and will appear in their respective Magistrate's Courts.
