The Welkom Anti-Gang Unit conducted a crime prevention operation in the Bothaville police precinct from 15:00 on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, until the morning of Thursday, 29 January 2026. The action was part of the #SaferFestiveSeason campaign and #OperationShanela II.
Officers arrested a 26-year-old man after searching his residence. They seized 74 zip-lock plastic containers of suspected Crystal Meth (weighing 74 grams), 168 bankies of dagga, and one full, six half, and 52 quarter Mandrax tablets.
A second search at another identified location led to the arrest of a 38-year-old man. Authorities confiscated 11 zip-lock plastics of Crystal Meth (weighing 8 grams) and cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales.
Both suspects are in custody.