A total of 71 arrests were made as police in the West Rand District held another policing operation, this time in Westonaria and Bekkersdal last Thursday.
Operations started as early as 6.30am and according to Warrant Officer Peter Masooa, spokesperson for the West Rand District Police, members of SAPS, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Gauteng Traffic Police and Department of Home Affairs joined efforts.
The intelligence-driven operation was divided into several phases 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 of 2002 regulations.
“Those arrested were involved in a variety of crimes, ranging from common robbery, assault with intent to cause 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 regulations, among them failure to confine to residence and crossing border without permit.”
Major General Fred Kekana, the West Rand District Police Commissioner said, “We must at all times uphold and protect the fundamental rights of every person and be accountable for our actions or face the consequences of the law.”
He again urged the community to abide by the Disaster Management Act regulations and to report those who transgress.
“Police in the district will continue to enforce these regulations and ensure that no unauthorised person 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.
He thanked all for their dedication and hard work, and warned that such policing operations will continue.
According to Major General Kekana, the public should take the following safety precautions:
• Always drive with your doors locked.
• If you suspect you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station or a busy public area.
• Do not stop when another driver indicates that you have a flat tyre or that something is wrong on your vehicle.
• Do not give any hitchhikers lifts.
The public are encouraged to report any criminal activities immediately to the nearest police station or contact Crime Stop Line on 08600 10111, communicate via the my SAPS app or to utilise the SMS line 32211 and remain anonymous.
