By BAKANG MOKOTO
24 March 2025- More than 237 suspects were arrested for various offences during Operation Shanela. The police in collaboration with other government departments and law enforcement agencies intensified efforts to address priority crimes across the Northern Cape province.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said between 17 until 23 March 2025, extensive disruptive operations were conducted under the auspices of Operation Shanela, leading to the arrest of 237 individuals, including wanted suspects. Ehlers said these arrests were linked to serious offenses such as drug dealing and possession, murder, rape, burglary, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), and contravening the Firearms Control Act.
“Dedicated detective teams also carried out targeted tracing operations to apprehend suspects evading justice. As part of these operations, 477 stop-and-search actions were conducted as well as 34 vehicle checkpoints and roadblocks were set up, resulting in the search of 2 247 individuals and 1 546 vehicles.
“Compliance inspections were carried out at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, and informal businesses, leading to the closure of unlicensed liquor outlets and the confiscation of significant quantities of alcohol,” she said.
Ehlers further said the law enforcement also seized large quantities of drugs, including dagga, and Tik, as well as dangerous weapons and handgun and rifle ammunition. She added that in addition to enforcement actions, various awareness programmes were conducted across all five districts, focusing on school safety (including bullying and teenage pregnancy), domestic violence, online fraud and cybercrime, and substance abuse.
“A team from Gift of the Givers provided humanitarian assistance in the ZF Mgcawu District, distributing food parcels and blankets to families affected by recent storms and strong winds. The police in Northern Cape remain committed to maintaining safety and order through ongoing disruptive operations. Community members are encouraged to share valuable information and report criminal activities via the MySAPS app or by calling 08600 10111,” said Ehlers.
The Guardian 