Local police say they remained resolute in their battle against criminality during the Christmas holidays to ensure criminals do not spoil the fun as residents celebrate their holidays.
Reiger Park SAPS
According to Constable Johannes Msimanga, this year’s festive season was notably quieter compared to previous years, with fewer major incidents reported.
Constable Msimanga outlined the key crime statistics for the month.
“A single murder case was recorded, along with two armed robberies, highlighting the continued need for vigilance in the community.
“Additionally, there were eight cases of grievous bodily harm (GBH), most of which occurred during altercations fueled by alcohol consumption and personal disputes.”
Msimanga said drunk driving remains a concern, with four arrests made during routine roadblocks and patrols.
“While the number may seem low, we continue to urge motorists to prioritise safety and avoid driving under the influence,” said Msimanga.
He pointed out that the festive season also saw a focus on cracking down on drug-related offences, with 11 individuals apprehended for possession of illegal substances.
“Furthermore, 12 arrests were made for illegal immigration, as part of ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with immigration laws.”
Despite the reduced crime levels, Msimanga emphasised the importance of community cooperation in maintaining law and order.
“The community’s willingness to report suspicious activity played a significant role in curbing crime this season,” he said.
Boksburg SAPS: Heightened efforts to combat crime
As opportunistic crime rates tend to spike during this period, this police station said ensuring that people enjoy the holiday season responsibly and safe was its priority.
It, therefore, utilised all its available resources and strategies to stay ahead of criminals.
To curb crime during the period, the teams led by the Vispol commander Lieutenant Colonel Lusha Govender conducted heightened visibility and operations, particularly in areas that often faced a heightened risk of crime during the period.
According to Govender, as part of the battle against crime, the teams also focused on some of the things deemed risk factors for crime.
These included targeted raids with the aim at uncovering illegal weapons and illegal substances, frequent visits to liquor outlets to check compliance, and clamped down hard on drunk driving.
The teams have during the period between December 22 and January 2 arrested dozens of suspects and confiscated weapons around the precinct, for various crimes.
Among the issues noted during the period were assaults and an increase in the long-standing smash and grab problem at the intersection of Main Reef and Field.
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Motorists are advised to be extremely cautious when driving in this area.
Here is a breakdown of some of the arrests made during the period between December 22, 2024 and January 3, this year.
- Attempted murder: 1
- Assault GBH 5
- Assault common: 9
- Armed robbery 3
- Robbery with weapon other than a firearm 3
- Burglary business: 3
- Malicious damage to property: 5
- Shoplifting: 2
- Fraud: 1
- Possession of drugs: 1
- Driving under the influence of alcohol: 5
- Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition: 2
- Domestic violence: 4
- Possession of stolen property: 5
- Undocumented persons: 7
Important numbers
Residents are urged to report any criminal activity and suspicious behaviour to their respective police stations or they can contact Crime Stop.
The following contact numbers can be used for emergencies, to report a crime or to register a complaint:
For emergencies or to report a crime, call 10111 or contact your nearest police station.
If you know of any criminal activities or want to report a crime anonymously, you can contact Crime Stop – 08600 10111.
You can contact the SAPS Service Complaints Centre to register a complaint on SAPS service delivery on 0800 333 177 or fax to 012 393 5452 or send an email to: ComplaintsNodalPoint@saps.gov.za.
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