A Total of 977 suspects were arrested during the latest week of high-density Operation Shanela 2 conducted across the North-West from April 6 to 12.

According to police, a further 543 suspects were also apprehended during separate detective tracing operations carried out over the same period.

The suspects were arrested for a wide range of serious offences, including drug dealing, illegal liquor trading, possession of drugs, rape, murder, attempted murder, carjacking, business and residential robberies, as well as assault and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH). Arrests were also made for burglary at both business and residential premises, possession of unlicensed firearms and illegal ammunition, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

In addition, 77 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.

Police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie, said the operations also led to the confiscation of various items. “Among the items seized were liquor, drugs, tobacco products, a handgun, ammunition, knives, and a vehicle,” Skalkie confirmed.

During the week-long crackdown, police searched 359 premises and 3,082 individuals. Compliance inspections were also conducted at 163 liquor establishments, resulting in the closure of nine unlicensed outlets.

The intelligence-driven operations were carried out by multidisciplinary teams made up of various law enforcement units, targeting identified crime hotspots and priority areas across the province.

The Acting North-West Provincial Commissioner, Major General Dr. Ryno Naidoo reiterated that Operation Shanela 2 will continue to intensify. He warned that law enforcement authorities remain committed to asserting the authority of the state, adding that criminals will face the full might of the law.