Between Monday, 4 November, and Sunday, 10 November 2024, a series of operations aimed at stabilising crime hotspots in the North West province led to the arrest of 2570 suspects for a range of serious offences. Working in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies and partners, the South African National Police (SAPS) applied a multidisciplinary approach to prevent and combat violent and serious crimes, under Operation Shanela.
The suspects were apprehended for crimes including sexual offences, murder, rape, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, drug trafficking, illegal liquor dealing, possession of drugs, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, burglaries at both business and residential premises, driving under the influence of alcohol, and illicit mining activities involving gold-bearing material.
In addition to the arrests, 301 individuals suspected of being undocumented were detained and processed by Immigration Officials. A total of 372 arrests were made during targeted detective operations aimed at high-risk suspects.
As part of the comprehensive operations, law enforcement officers conducted searches at 203 premises, 2569 individuals, and 543 vehicles. They also carried out compliance inspections at 131 licensed liquor outlets, 72 second-hand goods dealers, and 29 farms. The operations led to significant seizures, including 83 rounds of ammunition, eight firearms, three vehicles, various drugs, and assorted alcoholic beverages.
Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the Provincial Commissioner of North West, praised all involved for their commitment and for asserting the authority of the state to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. “This operation underscores our collective dedication to combatting crime and maintaining public order,” he said.
Limpopo, meanwhile, between 4 and 10 November saw 611 suspects arrested as part of Shanela operations that included roadblocks, stop and searches, and tracing of wanted suspects. Four firearms and 28 ‘dangerous weapons’ were seized, one stolen or hijacked motor vehicle was recovered, and small quantities of drugs were seized, the SAPS said.
The previous week (28 October to 3 November), nationwide Shanela operations netted 13020 arrests, including 2052 wanted suspects, 1122 illegal immigrants, 579 drunk drivers, and 140 murder suspects. Nearly 100 firearms and 1180 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated, along with 44 hijacked or stolen vehicles.
