KIMBERLEY – Operation Shanela II remains steadfast and intentional in its efforts to combat crime through high-density policing operations conducted across all five districts of the province.
The week-long actions, which took place from Monday, 18 August to Sunday, 24 August 2025, focused on priority crimes in identified hotspot areas.
During this period, multi-disciplinary teams effected 399 arrests, including several wanted suspects who had been evading the police.
The majority of arrests were linked to possession of dangerous weapons, drug dealing and possession, illegal liquor trading, murder, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, burglary, and malicious damage to property.
Police conducted numerous actions, which included roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and high-visibility patrols. A total of 14 442 persons and 7 582 vehicles were stopped and searched.
Compliance inspections at second-hand goods dealers, firearm dealers, informal businesses, and liquor outlets resulted in the closure of 19 unlicensed liquor outlets.
To enhance rural safety, high-visibility patrols were carried out in farming and mining areas.
These disruptive actions led to the confiscation of significant quantities of liquor, drugs, dangerous weapons, and copper cables.
In addition, several awareness campaigns were hosted, including Women’s Month programmes focusing on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). These engagements highlighted personal safety and awareness initiatives aimed at protecting women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended all SAPS members and stakeholders for their commitment and acknowledged the vital role of communities in supporting these initiatives. She encouraged continued collaboration between law enforcement and the public to ensure safer communities across the province.