A total of 135 arrests were made by police and other law-enforcement agencies in the West Rand District during joint and intensified crime-prevention operations and suspect tracing.
Also read: Crime on the West Rand: The picture is ugly but …
West Rand District Police communications officer, Captain Raymond Sebonyane said the crime-prevention and suspects-tracing operations were conducted from Friday June 17 until Sunday June 19. They yielded resounding results and landed criminals behind bars, and also ensured that West Rand communities are feeling safe and protected.
During that time an Operation OKae Molao was conducted in Khutsong and Carletonville policing precincts, and multidisciplinary crime-prevention operations were conducted simultaneously in Mogale City, Rand West City and Merafong City.
The arrested suspects will appear in the various magistrate’s courts for charges such as two for common robbery; four for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm under domestic violence; seven for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm; three for common assault under domestic violence; one for business burglary; three for housebreaking and theft; two for rape; three for common assault and malicious damage to property; seven for malicious damage to property; one for malicious damage to property under domestic violence; one for possession of unlicensed firearm; two for theft out of motor vehicle; one for theft; six for possession of suspected stolen property; 12 for possession of drugs; three for possession of dagga; two for possession of gold-bearing material; two for possession of a dangerous weapon; 36 for drunken driving; one for drunken driving, and reckless and/ or negligent driving; three for kidnapping; two for illegal mining; one for absconding parole conditions; and one for damage to essential infrastructure.
Other crimes such as shoplifting, contravention of protection order, warrant of arrest, dealing in liquor without a licence, and undocumented persons were also policed.
The District Police Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana commended the members and said, “I am delighted that members are committed to crime-combating operations and tracing wanted suspects, and by the efforts of other law-enforcement agencies in the District. Lastly policing is a concerted effort and the people sharing information with the police shows the trust the community of the West Rand has, and it is appreciated.”
The public is encouraged to report any criminal activities to the nearest police station immediately or to contact the Crime Stop line on 08600 10111, communicate via the My SAPS app or to utilise the SMS line 32211 and remain anonymous.
