Chris Hani crackdown: 21 arrested, R67,000 in fines

Police operations across the Chris Hani District ramped up significantly over the weekend of 24 to 26 April 2026, with law enforcement authorities reporting multiple arrests, roadblocks, and compliance checks as part of Operation Shanela II.

According to a media statement issued by the Office of the Provincial Commissioner in the Eastern Cape, officers were deployed across the district with a strong focus on visibility, crime prevention, and enforcement of traffic and licensing regulations.

High visibility policing and targeted operations

The operation saw police and traffic officers conducting stop-and-searches, visiting suspected premises, and monitoring compliance at liquor outlets. Authorities said the aim was to clamp down on illegal firearms, trace wanted suspects, and shut down unlicensed taverns.

During the weekend operations:

• A total of 1,374 individuals were searched
• 1,041 vehicles were stopped and checked
• 10 suspicious premises were visited

Police also carried out enforcement around alcohol-related offences and road safety, with traffic compliance forming a key part of the operation.

Arrests made across the district

Several arrests were recorded during the operation, including:

• 2 arrests for illegal possession of ammunition
• 14 arrests for drunken driving (9 in Cacadu and 5 in Nxuba)
• 2 arrests for drug possession in Ezibeleni
• Additional arrests linked to possession of tik in Nxuba

In a notable development, police arrested a 25-year-old suspect wanted in connection with a murder case during operations along the R410 in the Cacadu area.

Authorities also confirmed that three suspected drug posts were searched as part of efforts to disrupt drug-related activity in the district.

Taverns shut and fines issued

Compliance enforcement extended to liquor outlets, with 16 taverns closed for operating without valid licences. Of these, 13 were located within the Ntabethemba policing precinct.

Traffic law enforcement also resulted in fines amounting to R67,000 being issued to motorists for various offences. A significant portion of these fines, R37,000, was issued in the Nxuba area along the R61.

Police leadership responds

The District Commissioner Major General Rudolph Adolph is giving a thumbs up for the tremendous successes by his members over the weekend.

Police indicated that such operations will continue, particularly during peak periods and long weekends, as part of broader efforts to reduce crime and improve road safety.