In a resolute effort to combat serious and violent crime, the Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, has reaffirmed the commitment of law enforcement agencies to maintain a relentless pursuit of criminals through #OperationShanela.

Over the past weekend, police visibility was dramatically increased with spontaneous roadblocks and stop-and-search operations taking center stage. The authority of the state was resoundingly asserted as a staggering 793 suspects were apprehended for a wide range of offenses, including murder, rape, aggravated armed robberies, and offenses related to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, among others.

Among the apprehended suspects, a notable 64 were found to be undocumented persons. They will undergo further scrutiny to ascertain whether they were involved in any additional criminal activities within the province.

One particularly noteworthy arrest occurred on Friday, September 29, 2023, during an intelligence-led operation in Kgabalatsane. A drug laboratory was uncovered in the Itireleng Section, revealing an array of instruments and chemicals suspected to be used in the production of various narcotics. Furthermore, authorities stumbled upon a vehicle belonging to an individual previously arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) for similar offenses. Two suspects, aged 30 and 35, were taken into custody and are set to appear before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on charges related to drug trafficking. The confiscated vehicle and all related equipment were seized.

In Hartbeespoortdam, the local Crime Prevention and K9 Units conducted a Crime Intelligence-driven operation on Thursday, September 28, 2023, resulting in the arrest of a suspect at the Schamburg informal settlement. The suspect was found in possession of an unlawful firearm and 17 rounds of ammunition following a thorough search of his residence.

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena expressed satisfaction with the outcomes achieved by law enforcement agencies during this operation. He lauded the dedication of the officers and urged them to maintain their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the safety and security of all residents within the province.