The South African Police Service in the Nelson Mandela Bay District continues to intensify efforts to combat crime linked to illegal liquor trading through Operation Shanela II conducted on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.
During coordinated operations conducted across all police stations in the district, members focused on both legal and illegal liquor outlets to ensure compliance with liquor licensing regulations. These operations were executed in conjunction with relevant stakeholders, including the Liquor Board.
The operations are aimed at addressing the high levels of crime often reported in and around liquor outlets, while also targeting individuals who continue to sell liquor without the required licences.
The following actions were executed during the operation:
- 62 liquor licensed premises visited
- 14 illegal shebeens visited and closed
- Suspects arrested for illegal selling of liquor in terms of Section 19
- 5 fines issued for non-compliance
Police also confiscated a large quantity of liquor during the operation.
The SAPS remains committed to creating safer communities by enforcing liquor legislation and addressing criminal activities associated with the abuse and illegal sale of alcohol. Community members are encouraged to continue reporting illegal liquor outlets and criminal activities to their nearest police station or through the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
