20.07.2026 22:40
In security operations conducted in South Africa from July 13-19, 17,583 suspects were detained. During the operations, 1,777 individuals wanted for crimes such as drug trafficking, murder, rape, and carjacking were arrested, while 3,622 irregular migrants were also taken into custody.
In the Republic of South Africa, 17,583 suspects were detained in a week during security operations conducted nationwide.
NEARLY 20,000 PEOPLE IN CUSTODY
In a statement from the South African Police Service (SAPS), it was stated that operations were carried out nationwide against organized crime, drug trafficking, and other serious crimes between July 13-19 under "Operation Shanela II." It was noted that a total of 17,583 people were detained in the operations, and 1,777 suspects wanted for crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, carjacking, illegal possession of weapons, and home and business robberies were apprehended.
The statement reported that 320 people were detained on charges of drug trafficking, 3,113 on charges of drug possession, and 3,622 irregular migrants were also caught.
HIGH CRIME RATES IN SOUTH AFRICA
According to official data, in South Africa, where crime rates remain high, 23,096 murders, 51,554 sexual offenses, and 121,099 aggravated robbery cases were recorded in the period from April 2025 to March 2026.
After the government defined organized crime as one of the most urgent threats to democracy and the economy, 2,200 soldiers were deployed in March to support police in combating gangs and illegal mining.