167 arrests as Northern Cape detectives swoop on wanted suspects

NORTHERN Cape detectives have brought a wave of fugitives to book, arresting 167 wanted suspects in a sweeping overnight operation aimed at tackling serious crime across the province.

The large-scale tracing drive, part of the SAPS’s ongoing Operation Shanela II, was carried out late on Thursday, September 25, and in the early hours of Friday, September 26. Provincial, district and station detective commanders — supported by specialised units — co-ordinated the takedowns in the Frances Baard, John Taolo Gaetsewe, Namakwa, Pixley ka Seme and ZF Mgcawu districts.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam said the suspects had been evading arrest on a long list of charges, including murder, attempted murder, robbery, assault, cruelty to animals, drug possession, breaches of protection orders and immigration laws, reckless and negligent driving, tampering with essential infrastructure, domestic violence, theft, housebreaking, theft out of motor vehicles and numerous outstanding warrants.

All those arrested are expected to appear in magistrates’ courts across the province in due course.

The Northern Cape deputy provincial commissioner for Crime Detection, Major-General Luntu Ngubelanga, commended communities for their role in helping the police bring offenders to justice. He added that tracing operations will continue “unabated to ensure that perpetrators are brought to book”. 

Sergeant Sam said that members of the public can support the police’s efforts by sharing information on criminal activities via the MySAPS app or the Crime Stop line 08600 10111. All tips are treated confidentially. 

Residents are also encouraged to take part in the SAPS online Rate Our Service survey.