Fourways informal trading and settlements under JMPD spotlight
As Fourways grapples with informal settlements, street traders, and increasing by-law violations, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) say it’s stepping up operations to restore order and safety in the area.
Fourways is filled with informal traders and settlements, and has become a key area for by-law infringement in Johannesburg.
Residents are worried about crime, illegal dumping, cable theft, and land occupation along major routes, including the Ginger Park, Clay Oven, Witkoppen Road, and K60 road reserve settlements.
Superintendent Xolani Fihla, spokesperson for the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), said the department is responding through Operation Nomakanjani Manje Namhlanje, a city-wide initiative under the Public Safety Department, which aims to enforce by-laws and restore order.
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“By-law enforcement is an ongoing process, and JMPD collaborates with other city entities, such as City Power and Pikitup, to tackle illegal activities on public land.”
According to Fihla, solving these issues requires teamwork. Clean-up operations targeting illegal dumping occur in partnership with Pikitup and Environmental Health.
Joint operations, with City Power and the South African Police Service (SAPS), focus on cable theft, which often causes fires in affected areas. City Power is also replacing copper cables with aluminium alternatives, to prevent theft.
On the ground, JMPD units are concentrating on illegal street trading, to keep public spaces safe and compliant with regulations.
Crime prevention efforts are also increasing. JMPD’s Integrated Intelligence Operations Centre (IIOC) monitors crime hotspots using a wide network of CCTV cameras, allowing for real-time crime detection and quick officer response.
Joint operations with SAPS and private security companies are ongoing to reduce smash-and-grab incidents at busy intersections.
Also read: Fourways councillor calls for community to back safety initiative
Fihla mentioned that issues related to undocumented migration falls under the Department of Home Affairs, but JMPD works together with both Home Affairs and SAPS during joint operations.
“Our goal is to enforce municipal by-laws and address criminal activity, regardless of nationality.”
Fihla said, with areas like Sunninghill, Paulshof, and Fourways, JMPD’s strategy includes boosting patrol visibility, carrying out targeted enforcement operations, monitoring hotspots with CCTV, and partnering with community members to report illegal activities.
“JMPD is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all residents. We encourage the community to keep reporting offenses through our hotline and to the relevant authorities.”
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