Over 16,000 arrests made in South Africa’s festive season crime crackdown

The South African Police Service (SAPS) made 16 000 arrests during the festive season for a range of crimes. More than 16,000 suspects were arrested across South Africa in a sweeping festive season crime crackdown as police intensified operations to curb violent crime, alcohol abuse, and organised criminal activity. The South African Police Service arrested16,044 suspects between 29 December 2025 and 4 January 2026during nationwide Shanela II operations, with a strong focus on alcohol-related offences, serious violent crime, and the recovery of illegal firearms.

16,044 suspects between 29 December 2025 and 4 January 2026 Police said939 suspects were arrested for illegally dealing in liquor, while1,816 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In addition,30,043 litres of alcohol were confiscated nationwide, including more than12,000 litres in the Eastern Cape. 939 suspects were arrested for illegally dealing in liquor 1,816 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs 30,043 litres of alcohol were confiscated nationwide According to SAPS, “these actions underscore SAPS’s determination to protect communities from the devastating impact of alcohol, which fuels crime and reckless behaviour within our communities.” The operation also resulted in the arrest of suspects linked to serious crimes, including135 for murder, 181 for rape, 87 for aggravated robbery, and81 for illegal possession of firearms.

135 for murder, 181 for rape, 87 for aggravated robbery Police further arrested997 suspects for contravening the Immigration Act, while1,888 wanted suspects were traced and arrestedfor offences ranging from robberies and hijackings to sexual offences and firearm-related crimes. Significant recoveries were made during the nationwide sweep. SAPS reported the seizure of “113 firearms recovered, including handguns, rifles, homemade weapons, and shotguns,” along with “1,278 rounds of ammunition” and “325 explosives confiscated.” Police also confirmed that “32 hijacked and stolen vehicles [were] recovered in the past week.”