A large-scale law enforcement operation, Nomakanjani Manje Namhlanje, was launched in Hillbrow, Johannesburg, targeting undocumented foreign nationals, drug-related crimes, and hijacked buildings.
Gauteng authorities run mass sweep on Hillbrow
The operation, led by JMPD, SAPS, Home Affairs, and Immigration officials, resulted in the apprehension of more than 200 undocumented foreign nationals and the arrest of an alleged drug dealer.
Authorities stated that the operation is part of an ongoing effort to curb crime in the inner city, which has long been plagued by drug trafficking, illegal immigration, and hijacked buildings.
Despite the crackdown, the City of Johannesburg denied allegations of assault during the arrests, making it abundantly clear that law enforcement followed proper procedures.
As part of the operation, officers raided several buildings and businesses suspected of harbouring undocumented individuals.
Among those involved in the effort was former Sizokthola host Xolani Khumalo, known for his on-the-ground work in exposing drug dealers.
Khumalo was previously involved in a controversial case that led to the death of alleged drug dealer Robert ‘Kicks’ Varrie during an interrogation.
The incident, which occurred in 2023, resulted in a murder investigation against Khumalo, which remains active.
MMC for Public Safety in Johannesburg Dr Mgcini Tshwaku defended the operation, stating that authorities are determined to clean up Hillbrow.
“This arrest is a significant step in reclaiming our streets and ensuring the safety of Johannesburg’s residents,” Tshwaku said after officers apprehended a suspected drug dealer.
City Power discovers hijacked buildings with illegal electricity connections
Beyond crime, the operation extended to energy enforcement. City Power officials uncovered serious irregularities at Senator Towers on Hancock Street, a residential building where tenants pay rent but have no registered electricity meter.
An audit of City Power’s system revealed that the meters at the building were not recording data properly, and the caretaker was unable to produce an electricity bill.
As a result, authorities disconnected the building’s power supply, citing a failure to comply with regulations.
“We are enforcing revenue collection and ensuring fair electricity usage across the city,” City Power stated.
Despite law enforcement’s efforts, Hillbrow remains a crime hotspot.
According to SAPS crime statistics, Hillbrow ranked 20th among the top 30 police stations for contact crimes in the third quarter of 2024, having previously ranked 8th.
The latest figures show:
- 2020: 1,027 reported cases
- 2021: 778 reported cases
- 2022: 900 reported cases
- 2023: 849 reported cases
- 2024: 825 reported cases
- Year-on-year change: -24 cases (-2.8%)
Authorities say operations like Nomakanjani Manje Namhlanje are crucial to improving safety in one of Johannesburg’s most notorious crime districts.
The operation is expected to continue as law enforcement intensifies efforts to tackle illegal immigration, crime, and infrastructure violations in the city.