NABABEEP – An undocumented foreign national was arrested following an illegal liquor raid in Nababeep as part of Operation Shanela II, underscoring intensified law enforcement efforts to disrupt unlicensed alcohol distribution in the region.
On Tuesday, 08 September 2026, at approximately 11:00, members of the Nababeep Violence Prevention, Identification and Suppression Unit (Vispol) conducted a routine compliance inspection at a local tuckshop. During the search, authorities discovered multiple crates of liquor concealed in a back room on the premises.
Further investigation confirmed that the alcohol was being sold without a valid liquor licence. Police subsequently confiscated the illicit beverages, which hold an estimated street value of R5,000.00.
The investigation also revealed that the 35-year-old male owner of the establishment is a foreign national allegedly residing and operating his business in South Africa without the required legal documentation. He was taken into custody and now faces charges under the Immigration Act 13 of 2024, alongside additional charges related to the illegal sale of liquor.
The Namakwa District Management emphasized that such compliance inspections and disruptive operations remain a core component of Operation Shanela II. According to the district management, these initiatives are specifically designed to address and mitigate illegal activities that adversely affect local communities.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) issued a stern warning to all individuals involved in the illicit sale and distribution of alcohol, stating that such operations will not be tolerated. Authorities affirmed that intelligence-driven operations and compliance inspections will continue across the district, with strict legal consequences for those found operating outside the law.
