Northern Cape police target priority crimes: Province-wide blitz nets 237 suspects

THE ROADS of the Northern Cape were buzzing with blue lights and boots on the ground this past week as the police launched a sweeping blitz to clamp down on crime. From March 17 to March 23, law enforcement officers, supported by various government departments and agencies, turned up the heat in a province-wide effort that saw 237 suspects end up behind bars.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers explained that as part of Operation Shanela, the clampdown targeted a range of serious offences, from drug dealing and illegal firearm possession to murder, rape, assault, and burglary. 

Not even those who thought they could outrun justice were safe - dedicated detective units launched intensive tracing operations, reeling in wanted suspects who had been dodging arrest.

Roadblocks popped up across the province, with 34 vehicle checkpoints and 477 stop-and-search actions carried out. The police scoured 1,546 vehicles and frisked over 2,200 individuals, uncovering a cache of illicit goods along the way. Dangerous weapons, rounds of ammunition, dagga, tik, and other narcotics were seized during the high-visibility operations.

Unlicensed liquor outlets were shut down, and businesses dealing in second-hand goods, scrap metal, and recyclables were put under the microscope during compliance inspections.

While the crackdown was in full force, the police also rolled out awareness campaigns across all five districts. These sessions tackled pressing issues like bullying, teen pregnancy, domestic violence, online scams, cybercrime, and substance abuse—arming communities with knowledge to protect themselves.

In a display of solidarity, humanitarian aid also reached storm-affected families in the ZF Mgcawu District. Gift of the Givers stepped in to deliver food parcels and blankets to those left vulnerable after recent extreme weather events.

Colonel Ehlers said that as the police intensify their efforts to root out crime and restore public safety, they’re urging residents to play their part by reporting suspicious activity via the MySAPS app or the crime tip-off line on 08600 10111. The message is clear: crime has no hiding place in the Northern Cape.

- DFA

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