PoliticsSouth Africa · BrazilUpdated Aug 5, 08:33 UTC

Police report 15,798 arrests in nationwide Shanela II operations

Version 3 · 2 sources · 1 min read · Human editorial review

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Key points

  • South African police reported 15,798 arrests during nationwide Shanela II operations conducted with other law enforcement agencies and government departments.
  • Between July 27 and August 2, police said they detained 329 alleged drug dealers and 3,242 people for suspected drug possession.
  • At OR Tambo International Airport, police seized cocaine estimated at R28 million from cargo arriving from São Paulo, Brazil.

How the story developed

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Latest development

Police reported the seizure of 95 kilograms of cocaine, valued at an estimated R28 million, at OR Tambo International Airport; investigations continue and no arrests have been made.

Latest development

Police reported 15,798 arrests in nationwide Shanela II operations, including 329 alleged drug dealers and 3,242 suspects detained for suspected drug possession between July 27 and August 2, 2026.

With information from: South African Government News Agency. Show source articles