Over 20 000 drug-related arrests
Almost 500 drug related arrests were made in the Krugersdorp area.
Since the inception of Drug Watch two months ago more than 20 000 arrests have been made, with almost 500 drug-related arrests in the Krugersdorp area.
The latest figures released by Gauteng police show 20 068 arrests, which amount to an average arrest rate of well over 300 suspects in the province per day.
“We have seized a variety of drugs to the value of over R9 million as part of Drug Watch operations that commenced in Gauteng in June. We are seeing a noticeable reduction in drug dealing in certain parts of the province as more and more people are coming forward with information. These operations also reveal the so-called hotspots to us and we will be intensifying our efforts in these areas,” says Brigadier Neville Malila, Gauteng police spokesperson.
He adds that police also have conducted search and seizures at around 13 schools in the province.
“The reality is that drug dealing in schools is rife and children as young as eight years old are being targeted. It is important for us not only to flush drugs from our schools, but also to educate pupils on the matter.”
Head of Crime Line and Lead SA activist, Yusuf Abramjee says that the community’s involvement in Drug Watch is the main contributor to the initiative’s success.
“The amount of tip-offs we are receiving regarding drug-elated crimes definitely have increased. This information helps us to mobilise police to act.
“The feedback we are receiving is astonishing, ranging from reports that in certain areas drug addicts are struggling to get their hands on drugs, to former drug dealers coming forward to assist. The conversation Drug Watch has started in the province is having an impact,” says Abramjee.
He urged members of the public to continue passing on information to Crime Line and Crime Stop.
“Remember to be as detailed as possible with full addresses and any other pertinent information such as vehicle registration and telephone numbers. Every piece of information helps.
“We also continue to urge individuals and their families to come forward if they need help with drug rehabilitation. There are a number of great organisations that can assist and we gladly will put you in contact with them.”
Andy Mashaile, Chairman of the Gauteng Police Community Board says that Drug Watch in making an impact.
“We are making great inroads in the war on drugs and this partnership is starting to bear fruit.
“Last week we received a report that drug supplies were running low in some parts of Gauteng and this is encouraging. Let Gauteng run dry,” he says.
National Police Commissioner, General Riah Phiyega and former Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mzwandile Petros, speaking at the sixth anniversary of Crime Line on Thursday 22 August, praised Drug Watch for “making major inroads”.
General Phiyega said the South African Police Service (SAPS) would support the extension of Drug Watch to other provinces.
General Petros added that the partnership was working well and that they would continue their efforts to get drug dealers and manufacturers behind bars.
