On the 21st and 22nd of November all the stores operated by foreign nationals in Bizana and in Mzamba were inundated by Operation Shanela, operation Shanela is an umbrella body that includes different stakeholders that deal with issues like counterfeit goods, Immigration, building inspection, and departments like Home Affairs and Environmental. The planned operation was undertaken by the Coastal Zone which is made up of five police stations in, Mbizana, Qasa, Mpisi, Mzamba and Ndengane police stations.
Fourteen Foreign illegal immigrants were arrested on day one and nine on day two during the operation and several counterfeit goods and expired items were confiscated. Eight hundred and sixty-four thousand rand Estimated value of goods confiscated on day one, In Mzamba hundred and twenty-six thousand estimated figure of recoveries.
A total number of three shops closed and one bogus pharmacy, Lt Colonel Arnold Freemantle confirmed that Style Wise was closed as they were found selling medication without a license to do so. Medication seized is estimated to be valued at Two hundred and twenty-three thousand and fifty-one rand.
The operation also focused on prevention of road accidents therefore five people were arrested for drunken driving.
Our target was in businesses property crimes and property crimes are not only crimes but a threat to society and consumers are subjected to buying fake goods that put their lives in danger. – Lt Colonel Arnold Freemantle
A total number of nineteen illegal immigrants arrested and three non-complying shops closed in the two days of Operation Shanela.
