Over 200 arrested as Shanela 2 keeps up pressure on Northern Cape crime hot spots

A WEEK-long, province-wide police operation has led to multiple arrests and seizures as Operation Shanela 2 targets criminal activity across the Northern Cape.

The multi-disciplinary high-density operation, which ran from October 6 to 12, targeted criminal activities in all five districts through roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, stop-and-search actions, and intensive foot and vehicle patrols.

According to Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Merapelo Pilane, more than 3,200 vehicles and over 7,000 people were stopped and searched during the campaign. The police seized a large quantity of alcohol from unlicensed or non-compliant liquor traders and confiscated various drugs — including dagga, tik, mandrax tablets, and cocaine — along with firearms, ammunition, and copper cables.

Authorities also carried out compliance inspections at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrap yards, and other formal and informal businesses to ensure they met licensing and regulatory requirements.

By the end of the week, 211 suspects had been arrested for a range of offences, including murder, rape, assault, robbery, burglary, illegal possession of firearms, drug dealing, stock theft, and driving under the influence. Immigration-related offences also featured among the arrests.

Provincial commissioner Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola praised the joint effort, saying the success of the operation reflected the commitment of all law enforcement partners to keeping communities safe. 

She added that the clampdown would continue throughout the festive season and beyond, targeting priority crimes and maintaining the safety and security of residents across the province.