Over 1000 Suspects Arrested in North West During Intensive Crime Operation
Operation Shanela has led to the arrest of over 1000 individuals for a range of offenses from Thursday to Sunday in the North West. The operation, aimed at curbing the wave of criminal activities in the province, witnessed law enforcement authorities making considerable strides in the fight against crime.
Authorities have confirmed that the suspects apprehended were involved in various criminal acts, including rape, murder, assault grievous bodily harm, malicious damage to property, residential and commercial burglary, vehicle theft, theft from vehicles, as well as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“Over 1,000 suspects have been nabbed in the North West under Operation Shanela, which was conducted between Thursday and Sunday,” announced the provincial police in a press statement. The concerted effort by the police resulted in a substantial number of arrests in a short period, putting a considerable number of offenders behind bars.
Of the 1,009 arrested suspects, 248 held outstanding warrants for heinous contact crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, and assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm. House and business robberies also featured prominently among the offenses committed by the apprehended individuals.
Additionally, during the operation, 20 undocumented persons were taken in for processing, pointing to a stringent enforcement of immigration laws as part of the overall safety and security measures.
The comprehensive operation involved a series of strategic actions carried out by the police, including stop and searches, roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and inspections of businesses like licensed liquor premises and second-hand good dealers. Law enforcement also focused on tracing individuals wanted for specific crimes.
Aside from the arrests, the operation resulted in the seizure of a significant haul of contraband and illegal items. The list of confiscated goods includes 170 cell phones, seven unlicensed firearms, various drugs such as crack cocaine, crystal meth, and nyaope, alongside seven rounds of ammunition, unlicensed liquor, and dangerous weapons.
Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the Provincial Police Commissioner, extended his accolades to all officers and supporting law enforcement agencies, including the Traffic Department and Home Affairs, for their dedication and effective collaboration.
“The police officers, who worked with other law enforcement agencies, including the Traffic Department and Home Affairs, for the successes recorded in the operations,” lauded Kwena