Picture: Two suspects nabbed with illicit cigarettes/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
More than 1,000 suspects were arrested during Operation Shanela across the West. The North West police spokesperson, Capt Aaftje Botma said the suspects have been arrested for various crimes such as possession of drugs, dealing in drugs, rape, and assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH).
She said others were charged for assault common, murder, burglary at business and residential premises, for malicious damage to property, for driving under the influence of liquor and undocumented foreign nationals were taken in for processing by Immigration Officials.
“During operation and execution, 5 330 persons, 389 premises and 878 vehicles were searched. The operation also led to the closure of 18 unlicensed liquor premises and 200 licensed liquor premises were inspected.
“Furthermore, the operation led to confiscations of liquor, a variety of drugs, 39 explosives, three dangerous weapons and seven firearms. In one of the operations conducted in Mmabatho on Friday, a white Suzuki Ertiga, which was travelling from Delareyville was stopped during a roadblock on the N18 (Mahikeng/Vryburg) road,” said Botma.
She further said the vehicle was searched and 20 master cases of Remington Gold cigarettes worth R425 040.00 were found. Botma added that, the suspects aged 24 and 34 were arrested after failing to account for the cigarettes.
“The vehicle was also confiscated for further investigation. The suspects briefly appeared at the Molopo Magistrate’s Court today for possession of illicit cigarettes,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Management applauded the dedication of police officers for their active participation in various operations aimed at ensuring the safety and security of their communities.
The Guardian 