Women in Law Enforcement Lead Successful Roadblock Operation on the N12
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
A large-scale law enforcement operation was recently conducted on the N12 border between Gauteng and the North West Province. The initiative, known as Operation Basadi under Operation Shanela II, was led by women officers from both provinces and demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration and visibility policing.
Women Taking the Lead
The operation was commanded by Brigadier Matamela, with female officers taking centre stage in leading and executing the multidisciplinary roadblock. The name Basadi, which means “women” in Setswana and Sesotho, underscored the empowerment of women within law enforcement and highlighted their growing leadership role in crime prevention and public safety operations.
Scope of the Roadblock
During the operation, hundreds of vehicles and individuals were screened as part of proactive measures to combat crime and enhance road safety.
The statistics reflect the intensity of the initiative:
Vehicles stopped: 370
Persons searched: 432
PIVA checks conducted: 7
Vehicle circulation verifications: 53
The use of multiple agencies and tools ensured that checks extended beyond ordinary traffic enforcement, incorporating broader safety and crime prevention measures.
Outcomes and Successes
The operation resulted in 29 fines being issued, amounting to a total value of R17,300. These fines addressed a range of traffic and compliance violations identified during the checks.
Importantly, no arrests were made, suggesting that the operation’s strong law enforcement presence may have acted as a deterrent, promoting compliance and lawful conduct among motorists and passengers alike.
Community Impact
Operations of this nature are a critical part of maintaining public safety and ensuring adherence to the law. By focusing on both compliance and visibility, law enforcement sends a strong message that criminal activity and reckless behaviour will not be tolerated. The fact that the initiative was led by women officers added an inspiring dimension, reinforcing the value of inclusivity and leadership diversity within policing structures.
Final Thoughts
The success of Operation Basadi, Operation Shanela II reflects the power of cooperation between provinces and agencies, as well as the growing role of women in law enforcement leadership. With hundreds of vehicles checked, fines issued, and a strong message of deterrence sent, the operation highlights the continued efforts to safeguard communities along one of the busiest transport routes in the country.
Comments