Picture: Suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
2 June 2026 – As part of ongoing efforts to stamp the authority of the state, weekly high-density Operation Shanela actions conducted between 25 and 31 May 2026, resulted in the arrest of 586 suspects for various offences across the province. The multi-disciplinary operations focused on stop-and-search actions, roadblocks, Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), high visibility patrols, including foot patrols, tracing of wanted suspects, as well as inspections at 192 liquor outlets and 54 second-hand goods premises.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said the arrested suspects include 14 for murder, 31 for robbery, 38 for rape, 182 for assault with the intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), 84 for common assault, 20 for burglary at business and residential premises. Myburgh said this includes 7 for illegal possession of firearms and/or ammunition, 42 for contravention of the Immigration Act, 21 for illegal dealing in liquor, 6 for dealing in drugs, 62 for possession of drugs and 41 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“Out of the 586 suspects, 307 were circulated wanted suspects, who were traced and apprehended by detectives after being linked to crimes through forensic DNA and other investigative leads.
“During the operations, police confiscated various drugs, tobacco products, liquor, dangerous weapons, two firearms, ammunition, and one vehicle. An unannounced Operation Shanela was conducted on Friday and Saturday nights, 29 and 30 May 2026 in Mahikeng and Lomanyaneng,” she said.
Myburgh further the operational team comprised members from the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, Tactical Response Team (TRT), liquor and Second-Hand Goods (FLASH) Unit, Crime Intelligence: Overt Operations, Mahikeng Communications and Home Affairs, leading to the arrest of 15 undocumented persons, mostly Malawian citizens.
She added that one employee was fined R1500 for employing an illegal immigrant, while another suspect (20) was arrested for possession of suspected illegal goods in contravention of Section 80(1)(a) of the Customs and Excise Act, Act 91 of 1964.
“The police seized cigarettes valued at close to R10 000. One suspect was arrested for possession of drugs, while another person was fined for selling liquor without a license,” said Myburgh.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the police for their continued efforts and said that Operation Shanela continuous to deliver tangible results in the fight against crime. Naidoo commended the teams for their cooperation in ensuring a safer environment for all in the province.
The Guardian 