Operation Shanela remains aggressive in response to crime
KIMBERLEY – High-density operations under the auspices of Operation Shanela were executed across the province during the past week to address trio crimes, contact crimes, drug and alcohol related offences and property related crimes.
The multi-disciplinary teams in all five districts collectively netted 292 criminals, of which 116 are wanted suspects arrested by detectives during tracing operations. The suspects were wanted in connection with murder, rape and assault GBH.
Suspects were arrested for the commission of serious crimes, including possession of dangerous weapons, assault GBH, dealing in drugs, illegal dealing in liquor, robbery aggravating, attempted murder, burglary and malicious damage to property. Roadblocks, vehicle check points, as well as high visibility patrols were executed, whereby 5060 persons and 2219 vehicles were stopped and searched.
Compliance inspections were conducted at second hand goods dealers, firearms dealers, formal and informal businesses and liquor outlets, resulting in the closure of three unlicensed outlets and the confiscation of a significant amount of liquor.
High visibility patrols were conducted in rural areas where several farms and mines were visited. Disruptive actions resulted in the confiscation of a considerable amount of liquor, drugs, and dangerous weapons. Several social crime prevention activities were steered in the province to address priority crimes.
Kathu Social Crime Prevention, together with the Community Police Forum conducted door-to-door visits to address housebreaking. In Batlharos schools were visited by the Kuruman Public Order Police where several dangerous weapons were seized.
Police in Siyathemba were joined by the Community Police Forum and visited a crèche. They interacted with young children to create awareness regarding child safety and prevention of bullying. Awareness campaigns were conducted in the Pixely ka Seme District with the focus on sexual offence and GBVF related crimes.
A drug awareness campaign was held in Witdraai in the ZF Mgcawu District. Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola expressed her gratitude towards all Commanders, members and relevant stakeholders who contributed towards the successes achieved as well the communities for their cooperation. The Rate-Our-Service online survey can be used by scanning the QR code to comment on the services provided by the SAPS in the Northern Cape.