The West Rand District Police under command of the District Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana held another one of their weekly multidisciplinary operations, O Kae Molao, comprising of members of the police, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Gauteng Traffic Police, as well as the Department of Home Affairs.
The operational focus areas were around Westonaria and Bekkersdal policing precincts. Before the operation a parade inspection was done, and the codes of conduct of both the police and the SANDF were read by the respective law-enforcement agencies to ensure that the members were operationally ready.
Then the District Commissioner addressed the parade, reiterating the behaviour and professionalism required of members when interacting with the public.
“When we execute our mandates, we must at all times uphold and protect the fundamental rights of every person as directed by these Codes of Conduct and be accountable for our actions, or face the consequences of the law,” Kekana said.
The intelligence-driven operation was divided into five phases as informed by the crime pattern analysis of the two policing predicts through roadblocks, crime prevention, rural safety, suspect tracing and high-density visibility, road-traffic law enforcement as well as enforcing compliance with the Disaster
Management Act 57 07 2002 regulations. A total number of 71 arrest were made, ranging from common robbery, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, assault under domestic violence, theft, intimidation, contempt of court, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition, dealing in liquor without a licence, dealing in dagga, possession of drugs, dealing in illicit cigarettes, possession of illegal mining equipment, and drunken driving.
Other arrests were made for failure to comply with the National Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002 regulations (failure to confine to residence and crossing border without permit).Kekana further urged the community members to abide by the above regulations and to report those who transgress.
“The West Rand District will continue to enforce these regulations, and ensure that no unauthorised persons will be allowed in the district. We have a responsibility to ensure that the spread of the pandemic doesn’t affect our communities and its most vulnerable citizens, namely the children and elderly,” he said.
In terms of the Road Traffic Management Corporation Act 20 of 1999, fines were issued to none-complying motorists. The arrested suspects will appear in court soon.
The District Commissioner thanked all the members of police, SANDF and Traffic Police for their dedication and hard work.
The public is encouraged to report any criminal activities immediately to the nearest police station or contact Crime Stop Line on 08600 10111 or communicate via the my SAPS app or utilise the SMS line 32211 and remain anonymous.
