By: Nokulunga Lebambo 

Several illegal liquor outlets have been shut down across Mpumalanga as law enforcement agencies launched a powerful province-wide crackdown during Operation Shanela II.

The multi-day operation, carried out between 19 and 22 March 2026, saw officers descend on businesses, scrapyards, farms, and mines, exposing non-compliant and unlawful operations.

At the same time, police intensified roadblocks, patrols, and stop-and-search operations, leading to numerous arrests for serious offences, including violent crimes, drug-related activities, and illegal firearm possession.

Officers confiscated a range of items during the operation, including drugs, firearms, counterfeit goods, contraband, and suspected stolen property, dealing a blow to criminal networks operating in the province.

Acting Provincial Commissioner Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the coordinated effort, saying the results send a clear warning to those involved in illegal activities.