By: Ncamiso Dlamini
Ekurhuleni’s streets were made safer this week thanks to the sharp work of women in blue and their partners. A total of 256 suspects were arrested across the Ekurhuleni District during Operation Basadi, which formed part of the national Operation Shanela, led by women from local law enforcement agencies. The roadblock took place on Barry Marais Road between Villa Liza and Dawn Park, where several teams came together to crack down on crime.
The operation, which ran from Wednesday, 6 August to Thursday morning, 7 August 2025, was led by female officers from SAPS, EMPD, Gauteng Traffic, Gauteng Wardens, Home Affairs, Correctional Services, CPF, and other stakeholders. It was aimed at tackling crime in the area while also empowering women in uniform.
On Wednesday alone, detectives arrested 237 wanted suspects during tracing operations across the district. Of these, 155 were taken in for contact crimes, 19 for contact related crimes, 12 for property crimes, 50 for other serious offences, and 43 were linked to gender-based violence cases. Crime Intelligence officers also made progress, arresting a suspect found in possession of drugs and confiscating 12 containers (20 litres each) of diesel.
The following morning, Thursday 7 August, the operation continued in the Dawn Park area. Ekurhuleni District Commissioner, Major General Anna Sithole, led the operation herself, along with other female law enforcers. They arrested 12 undocumented immigrants, 2 suspects for drug possession, 1 for dealing in dagga, and 5 people were caught selling alcohol without licenses. In addition, officers issued a J534 fine for non-compliance related to second-hand goods, impounded 4 vehicles, and handed out 16 traffic fines worth a total of R5,800.
While this was happening, Social Crime Prevention teams and other stakeholders went door to door in the nearby Dawn City, raising awareness about house robberies. They also handed out safety pamphlets to motorists to help prevent car hijackings.
A community Imbizo was also held at Mapleton Ext 10, giving residents a chance to voice their concerns about policing in their area and engage directly with officers.
Major General Sithole praised the dedication and teamwork of all the women in law enforcement who took part in Operation Basadi. She said the continued efforts of these women, together with supporting departments and organisations, are making a real difference in reducing crime across Ekurhuleni
