The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) converged on Vryheid last Thursday to conduct roadblocks and clear the streets. Roadblocks were established at the Engen Junction on the R34 and at the four-way crossing on Stretch Crescent. The SANDF partnered with the local branches of the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Departments of Health and Social Development, the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and Operation Sukuma Sakhe members to conduct vehicle stop-and-searches, examine permits and ensure residents were adhering to the national lockdown regulations. Some passengers were reprimanded for not practicing social distancing. Far from strictly law enforcement, however, the stop-and-search efforts also included plenty of awareness on Covid-19 and how to avoid becoming infected with the virus. Another group of law enforcement units took to the streets of Vryheid town, Lakeside, Bhekuzulu and Sasko to clear out any loiterers, and raided shops which operated without the CIPC permit required for essential services. While conducting the roadblock at Stretch Crescent, police officers received information about a nearby business operating without this permit. Four suspects were arrested at the premises and were taken to the police station to be charged. In total, the SAPS made a total of 51 arrests during the raid, mostly related to the contravention of Regulations 11B (1)(a)(I) Act 57 of 2002, and impounded three vehicles at the roadblocks. SAPS Zululand Cluster spokesperson Captain Nkocy Gwala warned the public that the police were not “playing around”, and cautioned residents to adhere to the rule of law and regulations as instructed by President Cyril Ramaphosa on March 27. She continued by saying that the police were not only strict, but also wanted to make residents aware of Covid-19 by distributing pamphlets. The extension of the national lockdown is certainly taking its toll on residents, but Capt Gwala urged the public to do their part by staying at home, practicing good hygiene, and sticking to the rules and regulations of the national lockdown.

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