Operation Shanela Nets 252 Arrests in Northern Cape Clampdown on Crime

The Northern Cape is witnessing a prolific crackdown on crime thanks to the successful implementation of Operation Shanela, which has led to sweeping arrests and the shutdown of non-compliant businesses across the province. In the period between October 21 and October 27, 2024, a formidable tally of 252 suspects were arrested in an extensive operation covering five districts.

The operation marshalled a coordinated effort between various disciplinary teams, which intensified their presence and undertook rigorous inspections across numerous fronts. During the action-packed week, 21 unlicensed liquor outlets were forced to cease operations due to non-compliance, striking a blow against illegal activities that often accompany unregulated alcohol sales.

With the intention of making their presence felt and preemptively curbing potential unlawful acts, the police teams executed a meticulously planned operation that included vehicle and foot patrols alongside stop and search initiatives. As a testament to their dedication, 3,131 vehicles and an astounding 6,375 individuals were stopped and checked for any illicit activities at various Vehicle Checkpoints (VCPs) and roadblocks across the expansive Northern Cape.

The arrested suspects face serious charges ranging from illegal liquor dealing, break-ins at residential and business locations, property damage with malicious intent, various forms of assault, robbery, drug trafficking, and the possession of dangerous weaponry. The policing teams' reach also extended to compliance checks at secondary dealers, liquor stores, both formal and informal businesses, farms, and scrapyards.

In a remarkable haul, police successfully seized an array of contraband, including counterfeit commodities, hazardous weapons, unlicensed firearms and ammunitions, alcoholic beverages, narcotic substances, and a sum of cash, all of which are indicative of the pervasive criminal elements that the operation aimed to dismantle.

Further embedding themselves in the communities, the enforcement teams conducted a series of community outreach programs in collaboration with local policing structures. These initiatives not only served to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the community but also emphasized all-inclusive efforts in the ongoing battle against criminality.

Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, the Provincial Commissioner, expressed commendation for the diverse departments' joint efforts and acknowledged the indispensable support from the public, which was crucial in the operational triumphs.