The cross-border operation, led by the Acting Provincial Commissioner of Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Zeph Mkhwanazi, culminated in the tracing of three suspects involved in the murder of Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni.

Mtshweni was shot and killed by more than seven armed robbers during an armed robbery at a store in Schoemansdal, Mpumalanga, on Friday, 8 August 2025.

The first suspect was arrested on Saturday in South Africa by Mpumalanga police. Further investigations led the South African Police Service (SAPS) to Eswatini, where information was shared with the Royal Eswatini Police and the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force.

According to the Royal Eswatini Police, two suspects were traced to the Sishweleni region. When the suspects noticed police, they opened fire at them and the Eswatini Royal Police returned fire, fatally wounding the two suspects.

Further investigation led Eswatini police to Mantambe in Shiselweni, where the third suspect allegedly took his own life with a pistol before police officers could arrest him.

“On behalf of all the men and women in blue and the family of Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni, we would like to thank the Royal Eswatini Police, led by Commissioner Masango, as well as the role played by the Umbutfo Defence Force, in assisting our Mpumalanga police to trace these police killers.

“We look forward to strengthening and deepening our cooperation on matters of law enforcement.

“The attacks and killing of our police officers is a concern and we request our communities to assist us in putting a stop to these killings. From 1 April 2025 to date, we have already lost six police officers. We cannot afford to lose more.

“We need as much boots on the ground as possible to prevent and combat crime,” said Masemola.

This breakthrough comes at a time when SAPS is still searching for Jabulani Moyo, who shot and killed two police detectives who were transporting him back to the Boksburg Correctional Services centre after appearing in court on an armed robbery case.

SAPS has made an offer of R150 000 to anyone who can share information on the whereabouts of Moyo.

The leadership of SAPS, spearheaded by Masemola, will this weekend attend the three funerals of the members who died in the line of duty this past week.

The details are as follows:

Warrant Officer Vuyisile Sintwa will be buried on Sunday, 17 August 2025 in Mandilore, Krugersdorp.

Sergeant Simon Masenye will be buried on Saturday, 16 August 2025 in Munsieville.

Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni will be buried on Saturday, 16 August 2025 in Schoemansdal.

“The SAPS Commemoration Day is around the corner and will take place on Sunday, 7 September 2025, where 27 police officers, who lost their lives on duty, will be remembered,” SAPS said.

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Masemola was speaking on Saturday during a visit to the families of 51-year-old Warrant Officer Vuyisile Sintwa and 45-year-old Sergeant Simon Masenye, attached to the Johannesburg Trio Task Team.

The officers were shot dead on Friday while transporting a suspect from court back to prison.

The officers were escorting an awaiting trial prisoner, Jabulani Moyo, when they were ambushed in the Roodepoort town centre. Moyo remains at large, and a massive manhunt is underway.

According to the Commissioner, the SAPS has sadly lost three police officers in the last 24 hours, in the line of duty.

In the last financial year, 27 men and women in blue died in the line of duty, and six police officers have lost their lives to criminal attacks and ambushes, from 1 April 2025 to date.

“These are not just numbers; they were mothers and fathers who have left families behind to fend for themselves. Most of them were breadwinners in their households, but most importantly, they were members who dedicated and laid down their lives in the line of duty by ensuring that all people living in South Africa are safe and protected from callous criminals.“

Masemola said they cannot remain silent, and “it cannot be business as usual when criminals have declared war on the authority of the state.“

“I am making this call again to all police officers in the country, do not die with the tools and resources that we have given you. The men and women in blue must act appropriately when circumstances allow them to act. Remember to always use force that is proportional to the threat.

“I plead with you, do not let your guard down, always be a step ahead of these criminals to ensure the safety and security of the people of this country,” he said.

The Commissioner said the Johannesburg Trio Task Team is a unit that is responsible for investigating house and business robberies as well as car hijackings.

He stated Sintwa had 23 years of service, having joined the organisation in 2002, while Masenye had 17 years, and both were attached to the Johannesburg Trio Task Team.

He told reporters that the probe into how these detectives were shot and killed by Moyo is still ongoing.

“This investigation is being led by the Hawks, and we are relying on the bystanders and witnesses as well as evidence gathered at the filling station where they stopped from the Roodepoort Magistrate Court and where the shootings happened. We are following up on every piece of information that will assist us in solving this case.”

In addition, Masemola said they have established a multidisciplinary team led by crime intelligence operatives who have been on the ground actively searching Moyo.

“A lot of questions have been raised on whether the awaiting trial prisoner was handcuffed. It is standard procedure that all awaiting trial prisoners must be appropriately restrained and placed at the back of a van. On whether Moyo was handcuffed or not and why members were travelling in a sedan, all these questions are under investigation…

“For now, our focus is on finding Moyo. We believe he has the answers we are looking for, and we will not rest until we find him,” he explained.

Police have offered a R150 000 cash reward for anyone who has information on Moyo’s whereabouts, warning that he is dangerous and should not be approached.

“He has no regard for life, and we are warning anyone who has information to come forward and not approach this killer.”

The Commissioner also announced that the SAPS is offering a reward of R150 000 for information leading to the identification of at least 10 suspects involved in the shooting and killing of 47-year-old Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni.

He was fatally shot while responding to a business burglary in Schoemansdal.

He also took the time to salute and thank all police officers out there who risk their lives daily to serve and protect the people of South Africa.

“Let me thank you for being patriotic and for loving the badge and the South African flag. Do not let this deter you. Continue where your colleagues left off; we cannot afford to lose you. Be decisive in your approach. You know what you were taught,” Masemola said.

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Monday’s meeting in Maseru, Lesotho, discussed allegations that there are illegal Basotho military training camps in South Africa.

In a statement on Monday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said the delegation of senior officials from South Africa included the Deputy National Commissioner of Policing and Co-chair of the National Joints Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, the head of Interpol in South Africa, a senior officer from SAPS crime intelligence, and a senior officer from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).

The Lesotho Mounted Police Service delegation was led by Advocate Matsoso and consisted of the Deputy Commissioner of Police responsible for operations, Deputy Commissioner Likhama Moqhebi, senior officers from the Lesotho Mounted Police Service Crime Intelligence unit, specialised operations, and the detectives unit.

At the meeting, Commissioner Masemola appraised the Lesotho Police Chief on what SAPS crime intelligence driven operations have yielded thus far.

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Addressing the media on Tuesday, Masemola confirmed the arrest of Crime Intelligence Divisional Commissioner Lieutenant General Khumalo and six other senior officers on 26 June. He revealed that all seven have since been reassigned within SAPS pending the outcome of internal disciplinary proceedings, in accordance with SAPS’s 2016 regulations.

“This is a pivotal moment,” Masemola said. “We will be judged by our resolve, our adherence to the law, and our unwavering commitment to service.”

Major General Makgato Appointed as Acting Crime Intelligence Head

In a critical announcement, Masemola introduced Major General Solomon Makgato as the acting head of Crime Intelligence. Makgato, the current head of the Hawks in the Western Cape, brings 36 years of experience in intelligence and investigations. He holds a BTech in Policing and a National Diploma in Police Administration.

“We have full confidence in Major General Makgato,” Masemola stated. “His leadership will enhance efficiency and maintain stability in crime intelligence.”

Masemola affirmed the central role of crime intelligence in SAPS strategy, emphasising its importance in tackling organised crime and allocating resources effectively.

Mkhwanazi’s Briefing “Within His Prerogative,” But Situation “Unprecedented”

Masemola also addressed the political firestorm ignited by KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s explosive briefing earlier this week. Mkhwanazi alleged widespread political interference in high-profile investigations, including the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team and the illegal seizure of 121 active dockets.

When asked if he sanctioned the briefing, Masemola said Mkhwanazi had indicated his intention to update the public on the task team’s work. “Provincial commissioners have the prerogative to brief the media,” he said. However, Masemola admitted the current state of affairs is “unprecedented and concerning” and called for unity over division.

Masemola declined to confirm whether the Minister of Police directed the shutdown of the task team or was under investigation for interference. “These matters are subject to investigation. Let the space be given for proper processes to unfold,” he said.

He added that, contrary to Mkhwanazi’s suggestion, he had not signed any letter disbanding the unit. “I have not authorised any closure of the task team,” he stated.

Political Killings Task Team Status in Limbo

Masemola would not clarify the status of the task team beyond confirming that he had not issued an order to terminate it. However, he acknowledged that following the arrest of suspect Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, the reasons for interference with the team’s work had become apparent.

Pressed about the alleged removal of case dockets to SAPS headquarters, he avoided definitive answers and repeated that the matter should be left to investigators.

When asked whether he had engaged Mkhwanazi since the briefing, Masemola indicated that action would only be taken after discussions with the President, who is expected to return shortly. “Let’s engage with the President and then take matters forward,” he said.

Threats Against Mkhwanazi and Security Measures

In a striking admission, Masemola confirmed that Mkhwanazi has received threats to his life and that security has been “beefed up” accordingly. “There will be no persecution from my side,” he assured. “No SAPS member will be punished for doing their job.”

Public Trust in the Balance

Masemola closed the briefing with a plea for unity, stating “this is a time not to divide, but to stand together and fight crime together.”

His remarks come as Parliament, civil society and political parties continue to press for an independent investigation into the systemic failures within SAPS leadership. Portfolio Committee Chairperson Ian Cameron previously warned that “criminal syndicates are rejoicing” as SAPS leadership turns on itself.

As internal investigations begin and the President prepares to meet with police leadership, the SAPS faces a credibility crisis that could reshape its future.

This remains a developing story.

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Speaking at the official launch, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola outlined the scope and objectives of the operation. He said the second phase of Shanela would build on the gains of the initial campaign, which led to over 1.2 million arrests in 18 months. Since 1 April 2025, over 180,000 individuals have already been arrested under Shanela 2, including:

• 6,971 suspects wanted for serious and violent crimes

• 1,881 for murder

• 1,576 for attempted murder

• 2,367 for rape

• 18,255 for assault GBH

• 1,119 for illegal firearm possession

• 25,643 for drug-related offences

The SAPS has further recovered 1,441 firearms, 27,005 rounds of ammunition, and 862 hijacked or stolen vehicles.

Masemola stated that Operation Shanela II will focus on six key crime categories: murder (including gang and taxi-related killings), hijackings, illegal firearms, drug crimes, and gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The aim is to improve operational efficiency through increased police visibility, advanced technologies, and focused deployments informed by recent crime statistics.

Nationwide Implementation

The operation is being implemented across all provinces, with each region focusing on local crime patterns.

Free State: Targeting Border and Urban Crime

In Mangaung Metro, Operation Shanela II is active in hotspots including Bloemspruit, Parkweg, Botshabelo, Boithuso, Kopanong, and surrounding border areas. The multidisciplinary team, which includes the Department of Home Affairs, Border Management Authority, and Provincial Traffic officials, recently held a joint parade in Wepener before executing cross-border operations.

• Nine undocumented individuals were arrested for immigration violations.

• A Toyota Quantum was impounded, and 75 vehicles and 161 people were searched.

• In Qibing, compliance checks led to the confiscation of 25 litres of home-brewed alcohol and 128,520 litres of alcohol. Fines were issued for unauthorised liquor sales.

• In Bloemfontein CBD, a 41-year-old man was arrested for dealing in crystal meth. Six undocumented individuals were detained, and several road traffic fines were issued.

Eastern Cape: Rural Crime and Firearms

In Mthatha, Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Major General Thandiswa Kupiso launched the provincial leg of the operation on 27 June. She described Shanela 2 as a “deliberate escalation” of crime-fighting efforts.

Early successes include:

• Arrest of two suspects in Sulenkama for possession of 24 suspected stolen goats.

• In Lusikisiki, a 46-year-old was arrested for possession of a 9mm pistol linked to a civilian.

• A 39-year-old was arrested in Bajodini, Qumbu, for possession of an unlicensed revolver.

Gauteng: Urban Crime and Illegal Mining

In Johannesburg, Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni led operations in Jeppe and Cleveland precincts. Detectives arrested 941 suspects for crimes including murder, attempted murder, hijacking, robbery, and rape.

• Roadblocks, raids, and mining disruption efforts resulted in 32 arrests for immigration violations, illegal mining, and drug-related offences.

• Fines totalling R24,500 were issued for traffic and by-law infringements.

At Mary Fitzgerald Square, officers held a coordinated parade before being deployed for stop-and-search operations throughout Johannesburg.

Western Cape: Tackling Gang and Liquor Offences

In Mfuleni, officers arrested a 23-year-old man for illegal liquor sales after a tip-off. A large quantity of alcohol was confiscated. The suspect is expected to appear in the Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court.

Community Outreach and GBVF Focus

Alongside enforcement, SAPS has intensified outreach to rural communities. In Bloemspruit, station leadership held a session on policing accessibility and community engagement. Multiple arrests were made for drug possession, possession of dangerous weapons, and immigration offences.

Operation Shanela II is intended to focus acutely on combatting gender-based violence. SAPS reported the arrest of 2,367 rape suspects and 162 attempted rape suspects in the previous three months. Additionally, convictions have been secured in high-profile GBVF cases, including several life sentences handed down by regional courts for rape of minors and serial sexual offences.

Furthermore, General Masemola has urged all officers to conduct themselves with discipline and integrity, maintain high command and control, and continue their efforts to “track and trace all wanted criminals.” He reaffirmed the SAPS’s commitment to creating safer communities and enhancing public trust in law enforcement.

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Covering the period from January to March 2025, the fourth quarter report marks the end of the fiscal year and provides a benchmark for the efficacy of current policing strategies. Minister Mchunu was clear: progress is evident, but the journey to a safer South Africa remains fraught with challenges.

Sharp Decline in Murder

The most significant improvement came in the murder rate, which dropped by 12.4%, with 809 fewer killings compared to the same quarter the previous year. Reductions were also observed in attempted murder, grievous bodily harm (GBH), and common assault. In total, contact crimes declined by over 10,000 cases, a 5.8% drop.

“Every life saved is a step forward,” said Mchunu. “These figures show our intensified policing strategies are starting to yield results.”

Despite remaining the most crime-ridden provinces, the Western Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape all recorded progress in high-priority precincts, with several top stations showing either stabilisation or improvement.

Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Still Prevalent

However, the data on sexual offences remains sobering. While overall increases were marginal (0.3%), they reflect an ongoing national crisis. Over 10,600 rape cases were reported in just three months. The majority of these crimes occurred in private residences, either those of the victims, perpetrators, or people known to them.

“The domestic space has become a dangerous place for too many,” said Mchunu, underscoring the urgency of targeted government intervention.

To address the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), the government has launched a 90-day blitz aimed at closing systemic gaps between law enforcement, the courts, and social services. Between January and March 2025, SAPS’ specialised FCS units secured 703 convictions related to GBVF, with 93 offenders receiving life sentences.

Farm Murders and the “Genocide” Misinformation Campaign

Mchunu also tackled head-on the politically charged and widely debunked narrative of “white genocide” in South Africa, a term recently amplified on social media and even in international political discourse.

“There is no genocide in South Africa. These claims are baseless and dangerous,” he said.

According to SAPS data, of the six farm-related murders recorded in the quarter, five of the victims were Black African, and only one was white. “Facts matter. Misrepresenting tragedies to push a racial narrative helps no one,” Mchunu added.

Efforts under the Rural Safety Strategy are being renewed, with an emphasis on improving response in both commercial farming areas and informal settlements.

Economic Crime on the Rise

Not all the news was positive. Commercial crime saw a 4.7% increase, with the bulk of cases concentrated in Gauteng and the Western Cape. These crimes ranged from fraud and cybercrime to large-scale corruption.

Nevertheless, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) secured over 500 arrests linked to serious organised crime, commercial crime, and corruption.

Weapons, Drug Raids and Major Arrests

Illegal firearms remain a major contributor to violent crime. SAPS reported destroying over 16,000 illegal firearms during the quarter, many of which were seized in targeted operations. More than 24,000 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated.

Commissioner Masemola detailed several large-scale operations, including drug busts, arrest of cash-in-transit syndicates, and the recovery of stolen vehicles. Some 178,000 individuals were arrested during the quarter, including thousands wanted for serious offences.

Cash-in-transit heists, especially in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, continue to pose a challenge, but 39 suspects were arrested, and several vehicles and firearms were recovered.

Restructuring and Technological Reforms

SAPS is undergoing internal reforms aimed at improving its structure and operational efficiency. The current visible policing division is being split into two entities: Visible Policing and Operational Response Services. This restructuring is designed to sharpen the police’s tactical response to emerging threats.

The police service is also investing in forensic capacity and digital tools. A new partnership with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is expected to alleviate long-standing backlogs in evidence analysis. Plans to construct a new forensic laboratory in KwaZulu-Natal are now underway after years of delay.

Additionally, 5,500 new recruits are currently in training and expected to graduate by November, helping to bolster police presence on the ground.

Both Mchunu and Masemola cautioned the public against spreading misinformation on social media. They warned of the dangers posed by recycled or fabricated content that misrepresents the country’s crime situation.

“These distorted narratives generate fear, undermine law enforcement, and destabilise social cohesion,” Mchunu warned.

The report also acknowledged the killing of 22 police officers, six of them while on duty. Mchunu described such attacks as “acts against the state,” reiterating SAPS’ resolve to protect its officers and rural communities.

Progress Made, but a Long Road Ahead

The fourth-quarter statistics present a cautiously optimistic outlook: clear gains in tackling violent crime and operational success against syndicates, but persistent weaknesses in areas like sexual violence and economic crime.

“The journey is far from over,” Mchunu concluded. “But we are moving forward. With coordinated action, strong leadership, and public cooperation, we can build a safer South Africa.”

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General Masemola has also directed SAPS officers to respond swiftly and thoroughly to reports of bullying, stressing that delays, particularly those that result in viral videos before action is taken, must be avoided. He emphasised the critical role of school learners, bystanders, and those with knowledge of such incidents in reporting them without hesitation.

This call to action follows a specific case in which seven girls, aged between 13 and 15, were arrested after being implicated in an incident of bullying against a 14-year-old girl. The arrests formed part of a broader national effort, which saw 16,001 individuals detained for various offences during the week. The seven pupils were traced and apprehended by police and subsequently released into the custody of their parents in accordance with the Child Justice Act. They appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrates Court and are scheduled to return on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, to face charges of common assault.

General Masemola issued a clear warning that bullying is a criminal offence with serious legal consequences. He stated that acts of bullying may result in charges such as assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, crimen injuria, and others. A conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, potentially derailing future opportunities. He warned that police would not hesitate to trace and prosecute anyone involved in such behaviour, highlighting cases in which victims of bullying have taken their own lives. He also cautioned bystanders against enabling or encouraging bullying, noting they could be held legally accountable as accomplices.

The SAPS, in partnership with the Department of Basic Education through the School Safety Memorandum of Understanding, has been conducting awareness campaigns in schools across South Africa. These initiatives include talks on the dangers of bullying and gangsterism, as well as targeted raids to search for sharp objects, drugs, and illegal weapons.

The Commissioner called on all South Africans to stand united in opposition to bullying to ensure the creation of safer environments for young people.

This recent case is one of several that SAPS has dealt with in recent weeks. In Letlhabile, near Brits, police arrested a 16-year-old boy in connection with a separate bullying incident. That investigation, which involves up to 20 other children, remains ongoing.

Operation Shanela successes

The arrests form part of Operation Shanela, which was conducted nationwide between 12 and 18 May 2025. During this period, SAPS recorded significant law enforcement actions, including 223 arrests for rape, with KwaZulu-Natal accounting for 106 of those. There were 82 arrests for illegal firearm possession, 272 for illegal drug dealing, with the Western Cape leading at 55 arrests, 646 for illegal alcohol trading, and 2,847 for drug possession, over half of which were in the Western Cape. In addition, police arrested 183 individuals for murder, with the Eastern Cape accounting for the highest number at 52.

Further notable figures include 81 arrests for illicit mining and 679 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Among the notable confiscations were 65 hijacked or stolen vehicles and 128 illegal firearms.

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Speaking after meeting with the families of the missing officers, Constable Boipelo Senoge (20), Cebekhulu Linda (24), and Keamogetswe Buys (30), General Masemola reaffirmed the SAPS’s full commitment to finding the members and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.

General Masemola, alongside Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya and Provincial Commissioner of the Free State Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, briefed the families on the status of the investigation. He emphasised that the matter is being handled at the highest level, with significant resources deployed to secure the safe return of the officers.

A multi-disciplinary team comprising experienced detectives, crime intelligence operatives, and members of specialised units such as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI), Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS), and the SAPS Cybercrime Unit has been assembled. Personnel from Limpopo, Free State, and Gauteng provinces are all contributing expertise to the investigation.

General Masemola stressed that finding the missing officers alive and unharmed remains the primary focus. The second objective is to apprehend those responsible for their disappearance. He assured the public that the investigation is at a critical and sensitive stage, and that every piece of information is being thoroughly pursued.

“We will not allow criminals to undermine the authority of the state,” Masemola said, issuing a direct warning to those involved to surrender to authorities. He reaffirmed the SAPS’s stance that it does not negotiate with criminals.

Two of the missing members are attached to the SAPS Crime Intelligence Unit in the Free State and were undertaking duties in Limpopo. Constable Senoge, the youngest of the three, is based at Park Road Police Station and currently serves in the Community Service Centre.

Highlighting the SAPS’s determination to resolve the case swiftly, General Masemola announced a reward of R350,000 for information leading to the whereabouts of the officers or those responsible for their disappearance. Members of the public are encouraged to contact Captain Chaacha Manga on 082 527 6099 with any information. All tip-offs will be treated with the strictest confidentiality, and anonymity will be respected.

General Masemola appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed anything unusual, particularly around the Grasmere Toll Plaza area four days ago, to come forward. He noted that community assistance has been crucial in solving past serious crimes, including cases of kidnapping, murder, and sexual assault.

General Masemola further acknowledged the challenging and often dangerous environment in which police officers operate daily, reiterating that the SAPS remains committed to the protection and service of the South African people.

Support structures, including Employee Health and Wellness professionals, psychologists, and chaplains, have been mobilised under the guidance of the Free State Provincial Commissioner to assist the families during this difficult period.

General Masemola concluded by stating that speculation about motives would be premature at this stage, but he expressed confidence that the investigation would lead to a breakthrough in due course. He reaffirmed that the SAPS would not rest until the missing members are found and justice is served.

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At approximately 18:40, law enforcement officers spotted a white Isuzu double cab, suspected to be involved in a series of CIT heists. The vehicle was located on the R63 route near Qumrha, where road construction was underway. Upon noticing the police presence, the suspects attempted to evade capture by reversing their vehicle and opening fire on officers. In response, officers engaged, returning fire and forcing the vehicle to a standstill. Two suspects attempted to flee the scene but were apprehended shortly afterwards.

The subsequent investigation revealed a high level of preparedness. A suspect was found fatality wounded in the driver’s seat of the vehicle, with a rifle found beside them. Additionally, three AK style rifles, one R5 rifle, two buckets full of ammunition, a khaki bulletproof vest, and explosives were recovered. The vehicle was later confirmed as stolen in Mthatha earlier this year and was linked to several CIT heists in the region. The National Commissioner has provided the Minister with a detailed report.

In his commendation, the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, stated, “we salute the tireless efforts of the East London TRT, the East London Tracking Team, and the K9 unit, whose commitment led to the successful disruption of this criminal operation. While this success is a significant blow to criminal syndicates targeting cash-in-transit operations, the Ministry is deeply concerned about the increasing frequency of these crimes. We want to make it clear that this rise in CIT heists will not be tolerated. The extent to which these criminals were armed is particularly troubling; high-calibre firearms such as AK-47s and an R5 rifle were found in their vehicle. The Ministry, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, is committed to dismantling these criminal networks and ensuring that those responsible for these dangerous acts face the full force of the law.

“In addition, we strongly urge companies involved in the transportation of cash to be more vigilant and to tighten their security measures. The screening of employees, particularly those handling sensitive operations, must be enhanced to prevent any potential insider threats. The police will continue to engage with the private sector to ensure that appropriate security systems are in place. The Ministry recognises the gravity of the situation, particularly in provinces where crime rates remain high. We are actively working on additional plans to further strengthen our national strategy against crime. The safety of our citizens is a priority, and we will continue to deploy resources and implement measures aimed at reducing crime across the country.”

The National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, has firmly defended police officers who respond with authority and the powers vested in them in the fight against crime. This follows numerous incidents in several provinces where heavily armed criminals have shown a disregard for the law, and engaged in shootouts with police officers.

“For as long as criminals attack police officers, the police will respond decisively, as empowered by the relevant legislation that governs their work,” said General Masemola.

“Police have observed with concern statements issued in defence of criminals and the questionable silence when police officers are killed in the line of duty, including community members who are always at risk and at times killed as innocent bystanders,” he added.

Section 205 of the South African Constitution mandates the South African Police Service to prevent, investigate, and combat crime, maintain public order, protect citizens and their property, and uphold and enforce the law.

Since 1 April 2024, 21 police officers have been killed in the line of duty, which has resulted in calls for community members and civil society to rally behind the police in the fight against crime.

Police officers across the country continue their work, maintaining public order and fighting crime. Since the inception of the high-density Operation Shanela, over 1.2 million individuals have been arrested for various crimes, including murder, attempted murder, rape, and aggravated robbery, among others.

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National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, visited the scene and noted the operation highlights the grave risks associated with illegal mining, not only to the miners but also to neighbouring communities. Authorities have identified a growing pattern of human trafficking, with many miners claiming they were brought to the site under false pretences of job opportunities and were then held hostage and forced to mine gold illegally. Some of the heavily armed bosses controlling these operations are reportedly keeping the miners underground against their will.

In recent months, police have made significant strides in arresting key figures behind illegal mining operations, Masemola said. In November, two kingpins, Joacham Chivayo, a Zimbabwean national, and Ayanda Gungwa, a South African national, were arrested by the Hawks with R15 million worth of unwrought gold. They have since been charged with contravening the Precious Metals Act. Another kingpin, Loren Louw, was charged with 1,176 counts of money laundering and violating the Precious Metals Act, amounting to R2.6 billion. In September, Gary and Justin Mitchell were arrested for the theft of R20 million worth of illegally mined chrome.

Furthermore, six kingpins from Khutsong and Carletonville are facing legal action after the Hawks and NPA secured preservation orders for 51 vehicles and seven properties linked to illegal mining. These cases represent a fraction of the ongoing efforts to dismantle the illicit mining networks in South Africa, Masemola said.

Operation Vala Umgodi, initiated in December 2023, remains a ‘critical tool’ in combating illegal mining activities. The SAPS said while progress has been made, the situation demands more resources and continued support to ensure the safety of all involved and to hold the criminals responsible accountable.

Since December 2023, more than 15 000 people have been arrested in connection with illegal mining, and 427 high calibre firearms and more than 10 000 rounds of ammunition have been seized from illegal mining operations.

In Stilfontein, six bodies have been recovered in the past 24 hours, with 26 illegal miners resurfacing over the last two days. More than 1,300 miners have been rescued in recent weeks, and operations continue as the police work to prevent further tragedies.

General Masemola stated that the SAPS is committed to addressing the dangers of illegal mining, which he noted is often tied to other crimes such as human trafficking, money laundering, and armed violence. The Commissioner said law enforcement will continue to hold criminal networks accountable and urged all South Africans to join in this fight by reporting illegal activities and supporting the police’s efforts. “Together we can and we will put a stop to these illicit activities if we are all committed to the fight,” said Masemola.

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