Limpopo: Over 700 suspects have been arrested for various crimes across the province of Limpopo, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.

According to South African Government News Agency, between Monday, 12 October and Sunday, 19 October 2025, law enforcement teams across all five districts conducted simultaneous high-density operations that led to the arrest of 739 suspects and the recovery of seven firearms, the SAPS stated in a release on Monday.

Eight individuals were arrested for murder, while six others were apprehended for attempted murder. Additionally, 73 people faced charges for assault grievous bodily harm (GBH), and 47 were detained for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, among other offenses.

The crime-fighting efforts were part of Operation Shanela, which follows the recent launch of the Safer Festive Season Operations in the province. These operations, aimed at enhancing public safety ahead of the festive season, included roadblocks, stop-and-searches, vehicle checkpoints, compliance inspections at liquor outlets, tracing of wanted suspects, and monitoring of illegal activities such as drug dealing, illicit mining, and the contravention of the Immigration Act.

During the police operations, 7031 vehicles were stopped and searched, and 1097 liquor premises were inspected. Furthermore, police confiscated 21 dangerous weapons, 43 rounds of ammunition, 185.75 grams of crystal meth, and 5.62 kg of dagga.

Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, applauded the positive outcomes and reaffirmed that Operation Shanela remains a key driver in ensuring a safe and secure festive period.