Operation Shanela
Last week, the South African Police Service (SAPS) conducted a series of high-density operations in the North West province, resulting in the arrest of 597 suspects for various crimes. The operations were part of Operation Shanela, which ran from Monday, 23 October 2023, to Sunday, 29 October 2023.
According to a statement released by the police, a range of offences were uncovered during the operations. Four individuals were arrested for drug-related offences, while 11 were apprehended for dealing in illegal liquor. Furthermore, 21 suspects were found to be driving under the influence of alcohol, three were arrested for possession of firearms and ammunition, and 66 were undocumented individuals who were handed over to the Department of Home Affairs for processing.
Some of the most concerning arrests were made in relation to serious and violent crimes. Six individuals were apprehended for murder, four for attempted murder, and five for armed robbery. Additionally, 149 suspects were arrested for assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, three for business robbery, 41 for burglary, 30 for malicious damage to property, 13 for rape, and 104 for common assault.
During the operations, law enforcement confiscated two firearms with ammunition, eight cellular phones, as well as a variety of drugs and precious metals. Some of the suspects have already appeared before a court, while others are expected to make their respective court appearances this week in various courts across the province.
In total, 93 premises were searched, 12 roadblocks were held, and 11 unlicensed liquor establishments were shut down. However, during one incident in which a law enforcement team was conducting consumer inspections, a police officer was attacked by the alleged owner of a tuck shop. The suspect reportedly assaulted the officer from behind while he was removing expired products from the shop. The officer was taken to a local clinic for medical treatment.
Investigations into the incident are underway, with an arrest expected in the near future. The Provincial Police Commissioner in the North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, has condemned the attack, stating that an assault on a police officer is an attack against the state and will not be tolerated.
Lt Gen Kwena also highlighted the dangers of consuming expired goods, emphasizing that they can cause illness and even death. He pledged that the police will continue to work diligently alongside other government departments to ensure the safety of the community.
CentralNewsZa