SAPS clamp down on criminals
Boots on the ground as police aim to rid Brakpan of crime.
With Brakpan experiencing a surge in crime, local SAPS conducted an Okae Molao operation last Thursday.
Roadblocks, saturation patrols and raids were carried out simultaneously across Brakpan from the early hours of the morning.
The EMPD, Gauteng Traffic Police, security companies and community safety structures assisted.
Officers at a roadblock along Heidelberg Road (R23) searched for hijacked or stolen vehicles, illegal substances, stolen goods and other illicit goods.
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“The reason we brought the operation to Brakpan is because of an increase in hijackings here,” said Ekurhuleni District SAPS commissioner Major General Anna Sithole.
She stated hijackers are posing as police or traffic officers, winning the victims’ trust.
“We are urging the community to be vigilant when driving on Heidelberg Road,” she added.
Some officers were at vehicle checkpoints, while others visited liquor outlets, searched known drug hotspots and checked second-hand goods businesses for compliance with the second-hand goods act and offences relating to essential infrastructure.
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During the operation, 38 illegal immigrants were arrested and others were nabbed for possession of drugs. Three shebeens were also closed.
At the roadblock, 72 traffic fines were issued to the value of R31 750.
As part of the operation, social crime prevention members alongside district coordinators and Brakpan senior public prosecutor, Dick Hattingh, searched two schools, issued pamphlets on safety tips and raised awareness about crime hotspots.
Sithole thanked all law enforcement, CPF and security companies for the continuous support and the working relationship.
