Law-enforcement agencies recently joined forces to reduce crime and deter criminals in and around the rural parts of Mogale City.
The police, Gauteng traffic officers, and members of the South African National Defence Force, Mogale City Traffic and Oostermoed Security conducted operations in the Hekpoort, Magaliesburg and Tarlton areas of the West Rand Police District.
According to a statement sent by Magaliesburg Police spokesperson, Sergeant Rebecca Phithi, “Law-enforcement agencies joined forces with a clear mandate to combat and eradicate crime”.
Roadblocks were set up, stop and searches were conducted, and wanted suspects were traced in the West Rand policing areas.
On Thursday, 9 April, another Okae Molao operation was conducted between 5.30am and 2pm.
This operation resulted in 141 arrests. Suspects were arrested for attempted murder, motor-vehicle hijacking, rape, house robbery, armed robbery, common robbery, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, assault, fraud, general theft, possession of stolen property, possession of an unlicensed firearm, as well as contravention of the regulations of the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002.
During the operation 49 fines with a total value of R49 000 were also issued.
Phithi said that Okae Molao operations are conducted every Thursday, and static primary roadblocks have been set up in these areas. These roadblocks are aimed at locking down the District’s residents to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
“Furthermore, the District went the extra mile through the extraordinary four-phased secondary roadblock on the N14 and R28, aimed at managing high traffic and mobility, and preventing possible contravention of the regulations of the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002,” added Phithi.
District Commissioner, Major General Fred Kekana warned those who are not complying during this time that they will be arrested and no mercy will be shown.
Kekana also had a message for law-enforcement officers, saying; “If you are going to win any battle, you have to work for your country with passion, and make sure that every citizen abides by the laws of the country”.
Phithi said these operations will continue beyond the fight against the coronavirus, to ensure the District is safe.
Anyone who has information regarding someone not complying during this time, is encouraged to report it either to any police station, use the SMS line on 32211, or call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
