In their effort to deal with various criminal activities in their area of operation, the Rietgat police near the busy Mabopane train station have arrested more criminals. The police in the area, who cover most parts of north-east Soshanguve, launched their weekend operation, which is aimed at decreasing the level of crime ahead of the festive season.
Rietgat police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Lolo Mangena, told Record that during last weekend’s operation, the police arrested 33 suspects, mainly for a host of road traffic offences such as driving without a driver’s licence and obstruction of traffic, but there was also an arrest for shoplifting.
Mangena stated that out of the total number of arrested suspects, 27 did not adhere to the road legislation, while four suspects were arrested for being in possession of dagga. “Our officers have been hard at work. Over the last weekend alone we made an arrest of more than 30 suspects. We also issued fines of R1 500 to those who admitted to being guilty of illegally selling liquor,” he said.
He added that their aim was provide better safety for the people in the township.
Mangena also urged residents to be careful around Mabopane station, as several criminals had targeted people going to buy groceries in the area. It was reported that criminals – in particular nyaope addicts – often targeted people in the area, even during the day. “We have organised meetings with the taxi patrollers who, in the past, often helped us to keep the area safe,” he said.
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