OPERATION SHANELA II YIELDS POSITIVE RESULTS ACROSS THE NORTH WEST PROVINCE
By PHILANI MZILA
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the North West, together with various partner agencies, achieved significant successes during Operation Shanela II, conducted across the province from 17 to 23 August 2026.
The multidisciplinary operation focused on combating crime, tracing wanted suspects, enforcing compliance, and strengthening police visibility through searches, patrols, roadblocks, checkpoints and inspections.
The operation resulted in more than 736 arrests for serious offences, including illegal migration, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, drug-related crimes, assault, robbery, murder, rape and the illegal dealing in liquor.
During the same period, detectives arrested 364 suspects for various offences, including six for murder, 28 for rape, 114 for assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, six for house and business robberies, 32 for business and residential burglaries, and 12 for stock theft.
Among the suspects arrested was a known wanted suspect who was apprehended in connection with a murder in Boitekong.
Police also seized a significant quantity of illicit goods and contraband during the operation. The seizures included:
- 2,004 units of liquor, amounting to approximately 965 litres;
- 148 rounds of ammunition;
- One laptop;
- 1.327 kilograms of dagga;
- 158 grams of cocaine;
- 51.161 grams of crystal methamphetamine;
- 42 Mandrax tablets; and
- 25 explosive shock tubes.
In addition, police seized firearms, including an AK-47, assault rifle, and three pistols, as well as various calibre ammunition.
The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, commended SAPS members and partner stakeholders for their dedication and commitment to ensuring the safety and security of communities across the province.
“These successes demonstrate the commitment and determination of our police officers and stakeholders in fighting crime and bringing wanted suspects to justice. I commend all members and stakeholders who participated in Operation Shanela II for their continued dedication, teamwork and contribution towards creating safer communities in the North West Province.”
Operation Shanela II will continue with intensified and amplified policing operations across the province.
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