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By OBAKENG MAJE
More than 661 suspects were arrested for various crimes during Operation Shanela. The 84 suspects were arrested for drug-related offences, 10 for illegal dealing in liquor, 54 for driving under the influence of liquor, 8 for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, while 56 suspected undocumented persons were handed over to the Department of Home Affairs for further processing.
The North West police spokesperson, Capt Aaftje Botma said, a further 203 arrests were made for serious and violent crimes that included 17 for murder, 123 for assault with the intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), 40 for assault common and 23 for rape.
“During the detective wanted suspect raid operations, 13 suspects were arrested for house robberies. All suspects will make their respective court appearances in various courts this week.
“In one of the operations, police in Marikana received a tip-off about a robbery at a local tavern on 22 November 2023. A search was conducted and three suspects were ultimately arrested. They appeared in court today,” she said.
Botma added that the safer festive season, Operation Shanela, was conducted in the province as part of keeping the province safe and secured.
North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General, Sello Kwena, commended the police and all other role players for their continued collaborative efforts to send a clear message that, the province is not and will never be a ‘haven’ for criminals or organised crimes.