Picture: Liquor worth R58 000 confiscated/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
More than 300 people were arrested during the intensified crime prevention in the weekend. The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said, the suspects were arrested for crimes ranging from robbery aggravating, murder, rape, attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, possession and dealing in drugs to illegal dealing in liquor.
“With Operation Shanela gaining momentum to squeeze the space for criminals, police in the province arrested 320 suspects throughout the weekend. In one of the operations in Mmakau on Thursday afternoon, Riaan Spies (32) was apprehended at Skietfontein smallholding in De Wildt near Brits, for possession and dealing in drugs.
“The accused was arrested during a multi-disciplinary and crime intelligence driven operation after the team executed a search warrant. During the search at the accused’s place, the police discovered drug manufacturing equipment as well as chemicals used to manufacture drugs and approximately 4000 ecstasy tablets, computer equipment and a tablet gadget,” he said.
Mokgwabone further said the Spies briefly appeared at the Brits Magistrate’s Court on Friday. He added Spies was remanded in custody and his case was postponed until 9 June 2023 for formal bail application.
“In Bokamoso Location, near Rustenburg, a multi-disciplinary team comprising Rustenburg Crime Intelligence, Rustenburg K9, Public Order Police (POP) and Detectives dealt decisively with illegal liquor outlets on Friday. They raided and shut down three illegal liquor outlets.
“The police also confiscated liquor worth R58 525 and other shebeen operating equipment,” said Mokgwabone.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena lauded the police for their commitment in striving for safer communities through execution of various crime prevention and combating actions.
The Guardian 