Picture: The police during Operation Shanela II/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
2 August 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape continue to intensify the fight against crime through the weekly Operation Shanela II conducted across the province from 27 July to 2 August 2026. The police said the multi-disciplinary high-density operations focused on crime prevention, law enforcement, the tracing of wanted suspects, compliance inspections, road safety and strengthening partnerships with communities.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien said the police also maintained a heightened operational presence throughout the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Voter Registration Weekend, ensuring that registration activities at voting stations were conducted in a safe, secure and peaceful environment. Gamieldien said during the week-long operation, the police, supported by various law enforcement agencies and government stakeholders, executed numerous crime prevention actions that yielded significant operational successes.
“A total of 7246 persons, 3526 vehicles and 91 premises were searched, while 403 stop-and-search operations were conducted. The police also executed tracking operations targeting wanted suspects and detective tracing operations.
“Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) and static roadblocks were conducted across the province. Furthermore, 30 unlicensed liquor premises were closed for non-compliance. Compliance inspections formed an integral part of the operation,” she said.
Gamieldien further said the police inspected licensed liquor premises, second-hand dealers, scrapyards and recyclers, formal and informal businesses. She added that the coordinated operations resulted in the arrest of 270 suspects for various offences.
“In addition to law enforcement operations, SAPS members continued to strengthen relationships with communities through crime prevention awareness campaigns, school safety initiatives, victim support programmes, engagements with Community Police Forums (CPFs), neighbourhood watches, youth structures and other community stakeholders.
“These engagements focused on encouraging community participation in the fight against crime and promoting safer communities throughout the province,” said Gamieldien.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended all members and partner departments for their unwavering commitment and professionalism and cited that Operation Shanela II remains a key crime-fighting initiative that demonstrates their determination to reduce crime, remove criminals from their communities and improve the safety of all residents. Otola also extended her appreciation to the communities of the Northern Cape for their continued support and cooperation, particularly during the peaceful voter registration weekend.
“The SAPS remains committed to protecting all communities, enforcing the law without fear or favour and ensuring that every resident enjoys a safe and secure environment,” she said.
The Guardian 