Gender-Based Violence Arrests by SAPS Soar in 2025

In a significant nationwide initiative, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully apprehended over 13,000 suspects as part of a concentrated effort to address crime, particularly focusing on gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). This campaign, characterized by its 90-day intensified operation, has yielded substantial results, especially in the context of the ongoing struggle against GBVF, which remains a pressing issue in South Africa. Out of these arrests, more than 200 suspects were specifically charged with rape, a statistic that underscores the severity of this concern, with KwaZulu-Natal emerging as the province with the highest incidence of such crimes. This targeted approach reflects a commitment from the SAPS to ensure the safety and security of vulnerable populations across the country.

In addition to the extensive efforts against GBVF, the SAPS also launched Operation Shanela, which took place between May 26 and June 1, 2025, further contributing to the fight against serious crime. During this operation, 2,214 wanted suspects were apprehended across various provinces who were sought for violent offenses, including rape, murder, and robbery. Notably, among the arrested were 179 individuals charged with murder, predominantly from KwaZulu-Natal, followed by Gauteng, highlighting these provinces as focal points for violent crime. This robust strategy not only showcases the police force’s determination to mitigate immediate threats to public safety but also sends a strong message to potential offenders, indicating that law enforcement is actively engaged in protecting the citizenry and restoring order.

Summary

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully arrested over 13,000 suspects as part of a 90-day intensified campaign to tackle crime and gender-based violence, with a particular focus on GBVF-related offenses. Notably, more than 200 individuals were apprehended for rape during this operation, with KwaZulu-Natal recording the highest number of cases. Additionally, through Operation Shanela conducted from May 26 to June 1, 2025, SAPS apprehended 2,214 wanted suspects linked to serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder, and robberies. Among these arrests, 179 individuals were taken into custody for murder, predominantly in KwaZulu-Natal, while 108 were arrested for attempted murder, showcasing the extensive efforts of law enforcement to address violent crimes.