- Successful Execution of OperationShanela2: Major General Norman Modishana praised his officers for their effective efforts in recovering hijacked vehicles and stolen livestock during joint police raids.
- Recovery of Hijacked Vehicle in Lusikisiki: A Ford Ranger stolen at gunpoint was recovered in Mkhanzini after suspects fled towards Port St John’s, leading to the arrest of a 26-year-old man.
- Repatriation of Hijacked Isuzu D-Max in Qumbu: Police arrested a 35-year-old suspect for unlawful possession of a hijacked Isuzu D-Max, recovered through collaboration between various police units.
Mthatha, 7 August 2025 OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Norman Modishana, has commended his officers for their effective execution of #OperationShanela2, which led to the recovery of hijacked vehicles and suspected stolen livestock during joint police raids conducted overnight from 6 to 7 August 2025.
The first breakthrough occurred in Lusikisiki, where a Ford Ranger was robbed at gunpoint on business premises in Ntobongwana locality. The suspects fled towards Port St John’s, but quick action by Crime Prevention members and the K9 Unit led to the vehicle’s recovery in Mkhanzini. A 26-year-old man was arrested for being in possession of the stolen vehicle.
In Qumbu’s Blackhill locality, police recovered an Isuzu D-Max, hijacked in Tsolo in July 2025. A 35-year-old suspect from Bajodini was taken into custody for unlawful possession of the vehicle. This arrest was the result of collaboration between the OR Tambo Stock Theft Unit, Qumbu Visible Policing, and the District Office Command Centre.
In a third operation, police recovered 35 sheep allegedly stolen in KwaBhaca. A 75-year-old man was arrested for possession of suspected stolen livestock.
All suspects are expected to appear in various Magistrate’s Courts on 8 August, facing charges including unlawful possession of hijacked vehicles and stolen stock.
Major General Modishana praised his officers for their dedication in protecting rural communities and disrupting organised criminal activity in the district.
