Operation Basadi nets 217 arrests

A total of 217 suspects were arrested during intensified crime-fighting operations across the Northern Cape as part of Operation Basadi, conducted under Operation Shanela II. The operations, led by female district commissioners and senior female officers, were carried out from August 3 to 9 in collaboration with community structures and government departments. Police conducted stop-and-search operations, high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints, roadblocks and tracing operations targeting wanted suspects.

During the operations, 7 420 people were searched and 3 505 vehicles were stopped and searched. Among those arrested were 27 suspects linked to drug-related offences, while others were arrested for alleged murder, rape, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, property-related crimes and illegal liquor trading. Police also confiscated drugs, alcohol and dangerous weapons, while several unlicensed liquor outlets were shut down during compliance inspections.

The operations also included community outreach and awareness campaigns focused on the safety and protection of women, children and other vulnerable groups. Northern Cape SAPS said intelligence-driven operations would continue as authorities work to disrupt criminal networks, apprehend wanted suspects and prevent crime.