By OBAKENG MAJE
13 January 2025- More than 1194 suspects were arrested for various offences during Operation Shanela. The suspects were arrested by the police in the North West for working together with other law enforcement agencies and role players.
The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the arrests were executed between 6 until 12 January 2025. Mokgwabone said the suspects were among others, arrested for illicit mining, murder, rape, attempted murder, assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm and common and dealing in drugs.
“This includes illegal dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, burglaries at business and residential premises and driving under the influence of alcohol. Moreover, 115 suspected undocumented persons were also taken in for processing by Immigration Officials.
“Of the total arrests, 614 were effected during detectives’ suspect raiding operations. The arrests include an Angolan national (36), who was arrested in Vryburg on 10 January 2025, for possession of crystal meth,” he said.
Mokgwabone further said a Nigerian national (35), was detained after being found in possession of crystal meth and 91 mandrax tablets. He added that in Lomanyaneng village, outside Mahikeng, the operation which began with a roadblock, led to the shutdown of an illegal Second-Hand Goods Dealership.
“That after information was operationalised that the dealer was operating without a registration certificate. The dealer was as a result, issued with a fine. As part of the operations, 307 premises, 3 888 persons and 1 197 vehicles were searched.
“Moreover, 250 licensed liquor premises and second-hand goods dealers were visited for compliance inspections. The operation further led to the confiscation of liquor, 55 ammunition, five firearms, jewellery, nine cell phones, a variety of drugs and many other items,” said Mokgwabone.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, lauded the police and other law enforcement officials for their persistent hard work in ensuring the general safety and security of the communities.
The Guardian 