Police arrest 799 suspects during Operation Shanela in Orange Farm

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At least 799 suspects were arrested during Operation Shanela conducted in Orange Farm on Saturday night.

Led by Sedibeng Acting District Commissioner, Brig Sibongile Ndaba, Provincial Head: Organised Crime, Brigadier Cynthia Gopane, Orange farm Station Commander, Brigadier Masole Manamela, the multidisciplinary team of law enforcement agencies began with an overnight suspects raiding.

This resulted in the apprehension of perpetrators for crimes ranging from murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, assault GBH and common assault including 156 suspects arrested for crimes committed against women and children.

“At a roadblock held at Golden Highway in Sedibeng District more than 56 suspects were also arrested for different crimes that include contravening the Immigration Act, possession of firearm, possession of drugs and drunk and driving.

“Fines were also issued for contravening the Road Traffic Act and one vehicle was discontinued. The team also conducted compliance inspections and closed down 3 illegal shebeens for non-compliance and seized liquor,” the police said in a statement.

Meanwhile, two alleged extortionists were nabbed by police after they allegedly shot each other fighting over the loot.

According to Free State police spokesperson, Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli, on 23 November 2024, a case of carjacking, kidnapping, and extortion was registered at SAPS Selosesha for investigation.

He said, a victim, together with his friend, were hijacked and taken to a house in section A, Botshabelo.

Suspects fought and shot each other

“The victim was extorted of a large amount of money, and further investigations revealed that the two suspects allegedly fought over the money and shot each other.  

“One suspect was admitted in hospital where he is under police guard. The remaining suspect is still at large. On 26 November 2024, Selosesha police received information that one of the suspects was driving a white Toyota Corolla with Lesotho registration numbers.

“A full description of the said suspect was provided and on 6 December 2024, information was received from Botshabelo police task team that the suspect was arrested by Boithuso police for a domestic violence related assault.

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“Further charges of carjacking, kidnapping and extortion were added and he will make his first appearance in the Selosesha Magistrate’s Court on Monday,” he explained.

Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Baile Motswenyane said the fight against extortion related crimes is being intensified in the Free State Province to ensure that cases of this nature are prioritized.

He further urged anyone who is a victim or have information on extortion-related activities to come forward and report it to the National Extortion hotline.