More than 30 pedestrians were apprehended during a freeway safety operation conducted by the EMPD on the R21 and R25 freeways on June 15.

The operation, carried out by the EMPD Overload Control Unit in the Kempton Park and Boksburg areas, forms part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and reduce accidents involving pedestrians on freeways.

According to EMPD spokesperson Chief Superintendent, Kelebogile Thepa, pedestrians are prohibited from walking on or crossing freeways, which are designed exclusively for motor vehicles travelling at high speeds.

“During the operation, officers apprehended more than 30 people who were unlawfully crossing or walking along the freeways.

“The pedestrians were educated about the dangers of using freeways on foot before being released with warnings at the Boksburg Police Station,” she said.

Also read: Seven arrested in R21 pedestrian crackdown in Kempton Park

In a separate incident during the operation, officers arrested a 34-year-old foreign national for allegedly contravening the Immigration Act.

The suspect was detained at the Kempton Park Police Station and is expected to face charges relating to illegal immigration.

The EMPD urged residents to make use of designated pedestrian crossings, bridges and other safe crossing points when travelling on foot.

“Crossing a freeway not only endangers the life of the pedestrian but also places motorists at risk of being involved in serious crashes while attempting to avoid individuals on the roadway,” Thepa said.