By BAKANG MOKOTO
28 January 2025- More than 800 suspects were arrested during the High Density Operation Shanela. The weekly multi-disciplinary operation which commenced on 20 until 26 January 2025, focused on the enhancement of crime reduction and combatting within the North West.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said the police actions executed during the operations include vehicle check points (VCPs), stops and searches. Myburgh said this includes foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections at second hand dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, private security, firearm dealers, formal and informal businesses, farms and mines.
“The prevention of drugs and other commodities smuggling were also prioritized. During the VCPs and roadblocks conducted across the province, a total of 1052 vehicles and 3174 persons were stopped and searched.
“As a result of these operations, among others, 104 suspects were arrested for assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH), 17 for murder and attempted murder, 11 for rape, 85 for contravention of the Immigration Act, 32 for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, 36 for possession of drugs and 14 for illegal dealing in liquor,” she said.
Myburgh further said in the concerted efforts to eradicate the proliferation of firearms, seven firearms that included five handguns and two rifles were confiscated and five persons were arrested for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. She added that a variety of drugs, nine cellular phones and tobacco products were also seized by police.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, expressed his gratitude to all law enforcement agencies for their endeavours in ensuring that crime is prevented throughout the province.
The Guardian 