The Benoni SAPS left no stone unturned when it conducted its high-density operation on November 19 between 16:00 and 23:00 in various parts of Benoni.
The parts of Benoni that were visited by the officers were the N12, CBD, Western Extension and New Modder.
The operation was conducted in partnership with Ekurhuleni District Policing Forum, EMPD, patrollers, reservists, immigration officers and local security companies (ADT, Graphite Armed Response, Mamba, National Security and Fire, Raid Security, Fidelity Services Group, Makopano Solutions Group, Blue Honk Tactical and AAA Security).
Benoni SAPS station commander Brig Thabo Mphuthi said during the festive season several criminal activities, especially bank robberies, cash-in-transit heists and house robberies, become more prominent.
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“We are going to saturate Benoni and along with other stakeholders ensure that crime is tackled at places such as Snake Road and Tom Jones, as it has been reported on social media that there have been incidents of rock-throwing,” said Mphuthi.
“We will ensure that there is not a stone that has been left unturned. We want to send a message to the criminals to say their space will be squeezed. We will also ensure that the residents feel safe because that is our responsibility.”
Mphuthi said they are prepared for the festive season. There will be operations conducted and awareness campaigns to educate the community.
“In some of these operations with various stakeholders, we will be wearing civilian clothes. So, to the criminals, don’t only look at the uniform and think you are safe if you don’t see one.
“To the community of Benoni, be safe this festive season; take care of each other and your properties. As we are heading to Black Friday, when you buy goods, destroy the boxes because when you put them in the dustbin, you are informing criminals that there are new goods in the house.
“Also, look after your children as we are seeing that they are being kidnapped. Let’s protect them and ensure that whatever we do, we do it responsibly and we are aware of what is happening around you.”
Benoni CPF chairperson Dr Reza Patel said we are all on a bumpy ride as the festive season is on our doorstep, and we all need to take precautions in getting involved in the safety and security in our environment and ensure that we participate and are vigilant in anti-crime campaigns.
He advised the community to ensure that when it goes into the malls, it doesn’t show off to attract criminals. Take note of everyone in your environment and wherever you will be going to.
“Have a safe festive season and ensure that you take all the necessary precautions to take care of each other,” he said.
Successes from the operation: four were arrested for drunk driving, 26 for being illegal immigrants, three for dealing in liquor without licences, 50 people and 20 vehicles were searched, 10 liquor outlets were visited and four were closed down.
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