Picture: Police conducting stop and search/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
15 March 2026 – The members of various Provincial Components in the Northern Cape, supported by the John Taolo Gaetsewe District and surrounding stations under the command of the Provincial Head for Proactive Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopeledi, conducted crime prevention operations in Kathu, Kuruman and Mothibistad between 13 and 15 March 2026.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said operations formed part of the weekly Operation Shanela II and comprised of members Proactive Policing, Firearms, Liquor and Second-Hand Goods Unit, Corporate Communication and Liaison, SAPS Airwing, Northern Cape Provincial Gambling and Liquor Board and Kuruman Public Order Police.
“Provincial Operational Command Centre (POCC), Siyathemba, Kuruman, Batlharos, Deben, Olifantshoek and Siyathemba Police Stations and Traffic Police from the Gamagara Local Municipality.
“Operational activities included blue-light patrols, stop-and-search operations, as well as compliance inspections at liquor outlets and food establishments. Fines amounting to R4 500 were issued for contraventions of the Liquor Act, while additional fines amounting to R1 600-00 were issued to motorists who violated traffic regulations,” said Litabe.
He further said several liquor outlets in the areas visited were closed after failing to comply with requirements and conditions stipulated in their trading licences by the Liquor Board. Litabe added that upon conclusion of the operations, Kopeledi expressed her appreciation to all members and officials who participated in ensuring the success of the operations.
“These disruptive actions will continue unabated throughout the province,” he said.
The Guardian 