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21 arrested for serious crimes in massive West Rand police sweep

21 arrested for serious crimes in massive West Rand police sweep

The Citizen23-07-2025
Over 500 people and 136 vehicles were recently searched, resulting in 21 arrests during a massive police operation across the West Rand.
The operations focused on high-crime areas including Westonaria, Randfontein, Magaliesburg, Khutsong and Carletonville.
Offences included contravention of the Immigration Act, drunk driving, possession of suspected drugs, murder and illegal possession of explosives.
According to Gauteng Traffic Police spokesperson Sello Maremane, nearly 400 suspects were arrested during high-density operations and Operation Shanela held from July 18–20 by Gauteng Traffic Police, Gauteng Traffic Wardens, the police and metro police departments, among others.
In the City of Johannesburg, 56 suspects were arrested for charges of possession of drugs, driving under the influence of alcohol, contravention of the immigration act, common robbery and other offences.
'It is notable that more than 163 suspects have been arrested across the province for driving under the influence of alcohol. This is a serious crime and will not be tolerated, as it compromises the safety of other road users. Law enforcement agencies will continue to work together in removing criminal elements and lawlessness in the province.'
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