A joint operation saw SAPS partner up with security companies and community members to reduce crime.
The crime prevention operation held on July 19 saw the law enforcement contingent search the veld behind Cecil Awret Road, Illiondale.
Community member Linda McKenzie said it was held in response to criminals targeting Illiondale properties.
She said several Illiondale residents were victims of residential robbery, residential burglary or armed robbery.
It is believed that criminals make use of the open piece of property to gain access to Illiondale, while some individuals have made it their home.
Personnel from Edenvale and Sebenza SAPS, Edenvale and Sebenza CPFs, CPG Security, Mamba Security, Imvula Security, Fidelity ADT, Cortac K9 Unit, ER24, and Edenvale and Sebenza AfriForum branches assisted in the operation.
Sebenza SAPS spokesperson Sgt Sharon Tsotsotso said the station had received reports of squatters living in the veld.
She said five individuals were found living in the veld.
A variety of tools, electronics, mattresses, bedding and clothing was also found in the veld.
Tsotsotso said the five individuals could not be linked to any of the items found.
During the operation, the NEWS saw several locations where it appeared cables were burned.
“The five suspects were taken to Sebenza Police Station to determine if they were living in South Africa legally.”
The group (three Mozambique nationals and two Zimbabweans) were later released after police learned they we living in SA legally.
Tsotsotso said Sebenza SAPS followed up the operation with another one focused on drivers under the influence of alcohol.
The second operation was held in Modderfontein, Croydon, Kempton Park West and Esther Park; it yielded the arrest of seven drivers.
Tsotsotso said the suspects made their first court appearance on July 22.
