Picture: 36 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
26 April 2026 – With the guidance of the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, Operation Shanela 2 continued on 25 April 2026, into the early hours of Sunday morning, 26 April 2026, to combat illegal activities in Potchefstroom. The police said the area of concern, Walter Sisulu Street, within a section of the CBD known as the Wandelaan, was revisited again as an identified hotspot of illegal immigrants and numerous crimes.
The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the operation resulted in the arrest of 36 illegal immigrants, both males and females. Morake said two Nigerian men were taken in on enquiry by the Department of Home Affairs to verify their status.
“Stop and search operations were conducted in and around Potchefstroom area for drugs and unlicensed firearms and ammunition. In two separate incidents in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom, a Lesotho national (35), was arrested for allegedly being found in possession of possible illegal substances (Mandrax) to the street value of more than R700.
“Furthermore, a replica firearm, magazine and a weighing scale was seized and the man was also charged for being an illegal immigrant as his passport expired. A man (25) was arrested for possession of suspected illegal substances (Crystal Meth) to the estimated street value of close to R2000,” she said.
Morake further said the multi-disciplinary operation was successfully conducted by members from various units, including the North West Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, Potchefstroom Public Order Policing (POP) and Provincial Communications.
Meanwhile, Naidoo expressed his appreciation towards the members involved for their dedication and cooperation in protecting communities. He added that their commitment to excellence and professionalism reflects positively on the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“We would like to assure the public that police will remain vigilant and steadfast in bringing criminals to justice,” said Naidoo.
The Guardian 