Operation Shanela Success: SAPS Seizes Dagga Worth Over R400K in Modderrivier

In Modderrivier, Northern Cape, a significant drug bust occurred thanks to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in conjunction with various local law enforcement groups. The targeted operation, named Operation Shanela, took place on Friday, August 23, 2024, when officers intercepted a vehicle on the N12 carrying suitcases full of dagga—an estimated R440,000 in illegal drugs.

The operation was spearheaded by Major General Luntu Ngubelanga, the Acting Provincial Commissioner for the Northern Cape, signifying a high level of coordination between different branches of law enforcement and governmental agencies during Women's Month. Brigadier Nicky Mtongana, the Acting District Commissioner for Frances Baard, served as Overall Commander, while Colonel Michelle Ford took charge as the female Operational Commander.

This multi-disciplinary campaign brought together key players such as local SAPS from various districts in the Frances Baard region, Provincial and local Traffic Departments, and a range of government departments including the Departments of Labour, Home Affairs, Consumer Protection Authority, Economic Development and Tourism, Gambling and Liquor board. These entities worked in concert to perform compliance inspections, execute roadblocks, as well as foot and vehicle patrols that aimed at reducing crime and ensuring community safety.

During a sweeping roadblock on the N12, a thorough search of 338 vehicles and 288 persons resulted in 36 traffic fines totaling R25,000. This same operation also led to the arrest of two foreign nationals, aged 26 and 28, from Swaziland and Kwa-Zulu Natal respectively, found in possession of the substantial amount of dagga.

In a surprising reveal by law enforcement, the focus was not solely on drug-related offenses. The Sol Plaatje Municipality, Provincial Consumer Protection, Gambling and Liquor board, and the Department of Home Affairs carried out compliance inspections across several business premises. This resulted in three shops being closed for non-compliance and four foreign nationals detained for passport verification.

The operation, marked by its disruptive actions against normative criminal operations, culminated in high-visibility patrols within Modderrivier and the nearby localities of Richie and surrounding areas. Major General Ngubelanga expressed gratitude towards the numerous stakeholders for their collaborative efforts, with special commendation directed at the women who led the operation.

The success of Operation Shanela demonstrates the effectiveness of joint operations and illustrates the ongoing efforts to address drug trafficking and other criminal activities in South Africa's Northern Cape.