A recent law enforcement operation in the Eastern Cape has resulted in the arrest of 25 undocumented foreign nationals and 17 motorists for drunken driving. The operation, carried out under Operation Shanela II, took place between 9pm on April 17 and 3am on April 18, 2026, in the KuGompo City policing area.
According to South African Government officials, the operation was led by Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Vuyisile Ncata and brought together members of the South African Police Service, Provincial Traffic officers, the Department of Home Affairs, and the Eastern Cape Liquor Board in a coordinated effort targeting a wide range of crimes.
Operation Details
Authorities confirmed that immigration officials screened 30 undocumented foreign nationals, with 25 arrested following verification. Police also confirmed that 17 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, alongside other arrests linked to drugs, ammunition, and firearm-related offences.
The operation saw extensive deployments and enforcement actions, with 168 persons searched and 70 vehicles stopped. Patrols covered three malls, 19 ATMs, four taxi ranks, two railway stations, two retail centres, eight filling stations, and eight key points.
Reactions from Officials
Eastern Cape MEC for Community Safety Xolile Nqata praised the operation and law enforcement visibility, saying that the integrated approach “sends a strong message that crime will not be tolerated across the province.” Provincial Commissioner Vuyisile Nqata added that “Operation Shanela II continues to prove that there is no sanctuary for lawlessness in the Eastern Cape.”
The operation also resulted in the recovery of drugs, ammunition, and an undisclosed amount of cash. Inspections at liquor outlets yielded no compliance violations.
All arrested suspects are expected to appear in the East London Magistrate’s Court as soon as law enforcement continues its intensified operations across the province. For more information on the Department of Home Affairs and their efforts to combat crime, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
- 25 undocumented foreign nationals arrested
- 17 motorists arrested for drunken driving
- Extensive deployments and enforcement actions carried out
- Drugs, ammunition, and cash recovered during the operation
