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IN A STRONG display of female leadership, Operation Basadi was successfully executed in the greater Kuruman area on August 27. This multi-disciplinary operation, conducted in recognition of Women’s Month, saw female members from the South African Police Service (SAPS), Correctional Services, Home Affairs (Immigration), and the Provincial Traffic Department come together to enforce the law and ensure community safety.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers highlighted the operation’s significance. Senior female police officers, including Pixley ka Seme district commissioner Major-General Nomana Mtukushe, ZF Mgcawu district commissioner Major-General Monica Sebili and the provincial head of Pro-Active Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopeledi, led the disruptive actions.
Supporting these efforts were their male counterparts: acting provincial commissioner Major-General Luntu Ngubelanga, John Taolo Gaetsewe district commissioner Major-General Jonny Besnaar and Namakwa district commissioner Brigadier Schalk Andrews. Several female provincial heads and station commanders from the John Taolo Gaetsewe District also participated.
During the operation, a roadblock on the N14 resulted in the stopping and searching of 92 vehicles and 122 individuals. Traffic fines totalling R9,000 were issued for various violations and two replica firearms were confiscated, leading to an inquiry being registered.
In Mapoteng Village, Mothibistad, actionable intelligence led to the arrest of two 19-year-old suspects on drug charges. Authorities also seized dagga with an estimated street value of R60,707 and cash believed to be proceeds of crime.
High-visibility patrols in the Kuruman CBD culminated in the detention of 22 undocumented foreign nationals, further showcasing the operation’s effectiveness.
Compliance inspections were conducted at formal and informal businesses, second-hand goods stores and liquor outlets, resulting in the confiscation of expired goods and medicines.
Stop and search actions were also executed during which promotional material providing safety tips was distributed.
Grocery parcels were distributed by the ladies to several identified families in need in the area of Seodin and Mapoteng in the Mothibistad policing precinct.
Colonel Ehlers said that Women’s Month activities will continue with a Provincial Community Imbizo on Wednesday, August 28, at the Kakung Community Hall in Mothibistad and a Women in Law Enforcement Parade at the Mothibistad Stadium and a GBVF engagement on Thursday, August 29.