By Buchule Putini
The police in the North West have hit back hard at criminals, arresting more than 1 200 suspects in just one week as part of their intensified Operation Shanela 2.
Between August 25 and 31, law enforcement swept through all five districts, targeting everything from murder and rape to drug dealing, illegal mining, and armed robberies.
“Our detectives were relentless this week, tracking down suspects on our wanted lists and ensuring that those who think they are above the law are brought to justice,” said the SAPS.
Out of the total arrests, 460 suspects were already wanted by the police, while 20 undocumented foreign nationals were detained for violating the Immigration Act.
The operations also tackled crime hotspots. “We are shutting down illegal shebeens and cracking down on illicit trading because these are often breeding grounds for violent crime,” the SAPS added.
During the week, 13 illegal liquor outlets were closed, and authorities confiscated large quantities of liquor, 25 stolen cellphones, copper cables, seven firearms, 303 rounds of ammunition, precious metals, and tobacco products.
In the fight against illegal mining, police teamed up with the Hawks (DPCI) and the Department of Mineral Resources. “Illegal mining destroys communities, endangers lives, and robs the country of its resources. We will not tolerate it,” said the police statement.
At Bapong, near Mooinooi, authorities confiscated heavy machinery, including an abandoned excavator, two generators, and jackhammers used in illicit mining operations.
Provincial authorities say these efforts are part of a broader strategy to “stamp out crime and reclaim our communities from syndicates, gangs, and illegal operators.”
But the real test, as many residents will tell you, is whether these arrests and confiscations will translate into safer streets and lasting change for the people of North West.
