Escalation of crime in Bedfordview raises alarm
The integrated roadblock operation, joined by various law enforcement agencies and security companies, was conducted on Barbara and Brollo Road in Elandsfontein.
The district commissioner of Ekurhuleni, Major General Anna Sithole, has sounded the alarm with the escalation of crime in Bedfordview.
She said murder, common assaults, car hijackings and house robberies are of concern.
Bedfordview, Meadowdale and Elandsfontein are identified as ‘problematic’ areas.
“We have noted that theft of motor vehicles, as well as theft out of motor vehicles, is a serious challenge in Bedfordview,” said the general.
Bedfordview Policing Precinct conducted Operation Shanela, led by the general, on January 25.
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The integrated roadblock operation, joined by various law enforcement agencies and security companies, was conducted on Barbara and Brollo Road in Elandsfontein.
In an attempt to combat the scourge of crime, the district mobilised forces to assist the local station with the operation, which began on January 24.
“We started with our detectives’ operation within the whole district of Ekurhuleni, which has been a success as 226 suspects were arrested during the tracing operation. Charges range from contact crimes to property offences.
“Ten were arrested for outstanding warrants of arrest and 53 for gender-based violence.”
A suspected stolen vehicle was recovered. It was reported as stolen in October 2022 at Brixton. One suspect was arrested.
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A blue Toyota Tazz was confiscated it is alleged the engine has been tampered with.
Forty-nine illegal immigrants were apprehended and 62 traffic fines to the value of R23 200 were issued.
One person was arrested for possession of drugs and live ammunition, and two for possession of illicit cigarettes.
Sithole emphasised the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, including security companies, to effectively fight crime.
She called for a stakeholder engagement and for security companies to assist the local police.
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Bedfordview station commander Sinothi Ndaba, said, “The most problematic challenge in Bedfordview is our routes. We have a lot of entrances and exits.
“We have recovered stolen vehicles in areas like Vosloorus, Thembisa and Alexander, which shows that we have lots of escape routes which are easy access by the criminals.”
