By REGINALD KANYANE
24 July 2026 – Detectives conducted 47 tracing operations that led to the arrest of several wanted suspects who had been evading law enforcement and failing to appear in court for various offences during Operation Shanela II. The operational activities included stop-and-search operations, high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints (VCPs) and roadblocks.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the SAPS together with community structures and various government departments, intensified crime-fighting initiatives during the execution of Operation Shanela II across all five districts of the province. Ehlers said the unwavering commitment resulted in the arrest of 269 suspects during the week-long operation conducted from 13 until 19 July 2026.
“During the operation, numerous premises were searched, while a total of 5 583 persons and 2 701 vehicles were searched. Furthermore, compliance inspections were conducted in conjunction with relevant authorities at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recycling facilities, firearm dealerships and informal businesses to ensure compliance with applicable legislation.
“As a result, 26 unlicensed liquor outlets were shut down for non-compliance with various legislative requirements. In total, 269 suspects were arrested for offences including drug-related crimes, illegal liquor trading, property-related crimes, rape, attempted murder, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm,” she said.
Ehlers further said the continued disruption of the illegal drug trade led to the arrest of 54 suspects for drug-related offences and the seizure of a substantial quantity of drugs. She said in addition, alcohol, copper cable and dangerous weapons were confiscated during stop-and-search operations.
“In commemoration of Mandela Day, several community outreach initiatives were undertaken across the province to give back to communities,” said Ehlers.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, hosted an outreach programme for elderly residents in Pampierstad. Otola said the Provincial Heads and District Commissioners also led similar initiatives in their respective areas in support of Mandela Day.
“The Northern Cape SAPS remains resolute in its commitment to creating a safer environment for all communities. Law enforcement agencies will continue to disrupt criminal activities through the execution of intelligence-driven and focused operations,” she said.
Picture: More than 269 Suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II/Supplied
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