Contact crimes and trio crimes remain among the most prevalent offences in the Benoni policing area.

As a result, police will intensify visibility and operations throughout the festive season in identified hotspots, particularly sectors one and two, which have recorded incidents of house robberies and hijackings.

These sectors include Rynfield, Morehill, Benoni AH and Norton Home Estates, Brentwood Park, Northmead, Airfield and Farrarmere.

Speaking at an Operation Shanela in Kingsway Road on December 18, acting Ekurhuleni District SAPS Commissioner Brigadier David Ngcobo said police are out in full force to ensure the safety of residents in Benoni and surrounding areas.

Shanela brought traffic to a standstill as EMPD and police officers conducted stop-and-search operations on vehicles.

Following the roadblock, police officers also proceeded to various shopping malls to ensure the safety of shoppers.

Ngcobo urged members of the public to play their part in crime prevention by avoiding carrying large sums of cash, which could increase the risk of robbery or theft.

He also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious or criminal activity to the police.
Successes

Highlighting the successes of this operation, Ngcobo said police searched 1 532 people and 450 vehicles.

A total of 68 fines, amounting to about R27 300 were issued.

In addition, 43 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested, while 11 people were arrested for possession of dagga.

Police also visited 13 liquor outlets, five of which were closed due to non-compliance, and 10 second-hand goods dealers were inspected.

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