Picture: Some of dagga confiscated by the police/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
7 June 2026 – Senior officers together with community structures and government departments in the Northern Cape ramped up crime combating initiatives by leading an aggressive stance on crime across all five districts. The zero tolerance against crime resulted in the arrest of 841 individuals in the Northern Cape during weeklong operations that commenced on 1 until 7 June 2026.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola accompanied by the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General, Johnny Besnaar, bolstered efforts in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District before proceeding to the ZF Mgcawu District. Ehlers said during the operation, numerous premises were searched, while a total of 14 414 individuals and 6 797 vehicles were also searched.
“Detectives conducted tracing operations that yielded the arrest of several wanted suspects who had been evading law enforcement and court appearances for various offences. Operational actions included stop-and-search actions, high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints (VCPs) and roadblocks.
“Furthermore, compliance inspections with relevant authorities were carried out at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recycling facilities, firearm dealerships, informal businesses, including tuck shops, hair salons and food outlets to ensure adherence to relevant legislation,” she said.
Ehlers further said as a result, 56 unlicensed liquor outlets were shut down due to non-compliance and violation of various regulations. She added that officials from the Department of Home Affairs were also present to verify the immigration status of individuals.
“In total, 841 suspects were arrested for offences linked to drug-related crimes, illegal liquor trading, property related crimes, murder, rape, attempted murder, and assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH).
“Large quantities of alcohol and drugs as well as dangerous weapons, and copper cable were confiscated during the stop and search actions. Additionally, several community outreach programmes and awareness campaigns were held to promote youth month,” said Ehlers.
She said child protection and Gender-Based Violence (GBH) were the prevalent focus areas. Ehlers said the Northern Cape SAPS remains steadfast and unwavering in its commitment to creating a safer environment.
“Law enforcement agencies will continue to close in on criminals, leaving no room for lawlessness to thrive. Communities can be assured that operations will remain intensified to safeguard lives and property,” she said.
The Guardian 