North West police arrested 586 suspects for various crimes during the latest high-density Operation Shanela conducted across the province between May 25 and 31.

The arrests were made during multi-disciplinary operations that included stop-and-search actions, roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, high-visibility patrols, tracing of wanted suspects, and inspections at liquor outlets and second-hand goods premises.

According to police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh, the operation targeted a range of serious offences and resulted in the arrest of suspects linked to violent crime, drug-related offences, immigration violations and other criminal activities.

“The multi-disciplinary operations focused on stop-and-search actions, roadblocks, vehicle check points, high visibility patrols, including foot patrols, tracing of wanted suspects, as well as inspections at 192 liquor outlets and 54 second-hand goods premises,” said Myburgh.

Among those arrested were 14 suspects for murder, 31 for robbery, 38 for rape, 182 for assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, 84 for common assault, 20 for burglary at business and residential premises, seven for the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, 42 for contravening the Immigration Act, 21 for illegal dealing in liquor, six for dealing in drugs, 62 for possession of drugs and 41 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Police said 307 of the 586 suspects were circulated wanted suspects who were traced and arrested by detectives after being linked to crimes through forensic DNA evidence and other investigative leads.

Various drugs, tobacco products, liquor, dangerous weapons, two firearms, ammunition and one vehicle were confiscated during the operations.

An unannounced Operation Shanela was also conducted in Mahikeng and Lomanyaneng on the nights of 29 and 30 May. The operation involved members of the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, Tactical Response Team, Liquor and Second Hand Goods Unit, Crime Intelligence, Mahikeng Communications and officials from Home Affairs.

The operation resulted in the arrest of 15 undocumented persons, most of whom were Malawian nationals.

Police also fined one employer R1 500 for employing an undocumented immigrant. A 20-year-old suspect was arrested for possession of suspected illegal goods in contravention of the Customs and Excise Act, while cigarettes valued at nearly R10 000 were seized.

Another suspect was arrested for possession of drugs and a further individual was fined for selling liquor without a licence.

Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Dr Ryno Naidoo commended officers for their efforts, saying Operation Shanela continues to produce tangible results in the fight against crime.

Myburgh said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to stamp the authority of the State and create a safer environment for communities across the province.