MMC vows to take decisive action against illegal traders and road offenders
MMC Hannes Coetzee also expressed deep appreciation to TMPD officers for their professionalism, dedication, and the personal risks they take to keep communities safe.
The metro won’t tolerate lawlessness, and will take decisive action against illegal traders, road offenders, and those found to be in the country unlawfully.
This is according to MMC for Community Safety, Hannes Coetzee, who made the remarks following a series of co-ordinated TMPD operations across the metro recently.
Coetzee said the operations were aimed at protecting residents, upholding the rule of law, and sending a clear signal to offenders that Tshwane is not a haven for criminal activity.
In Winterveldt, TMPD Region 1 Sector 1 officers spearheaded a joint operation targeting the unlawful presence of individuals in the country and the illegal sale of alcohol.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 12 suspects, nine for being in the country illegally, and three for trading alcohol without valid licences.
According to Coetzee, the arrests demonstrate that the metro is prepared to act decisively against those who disregard regulations, operate outside the legal framework, and exploit vulnerable communities for personal gain.
Simultaneously, in Hammanskraal, Sector 1 officers conducted an intensive road safety blitz aimed at increasing compliance with traffic regulations.
Dozens of vehicles were stopped and inspected, leading to the issuing of 62 AARTO infringement notices for violations, including unroadworthy vehicles, failure to display valid documentation, and reckless driving.
Coetzee said road safety remained a top priority, adding that enforcement operations play a vital role in reducing road accidents, improving driver behaviour, and ultimately saving lives.
– In a separate incident, TMPD patrol officers intercepted two vehicles transporting 53 Zimbabwean nationals, who were found to be in the country illegally.
These individuals were taken into custody and are now undergoing the due immigration process.
Coetzee emphasised that such interventions are crucial in maintaining border integrity, safeguarding public order, and preventing the exploitation of migrants by unscrupulous operators.
“We want to be unequivocal. Tshwane is not a haven for criminality. Whether it be unlicensed trading, road law violations, or illegal immigration, we will act decisively.
“The law is not an option; it is a non-negotiable standard. These operations reflect not only our resolve to enforce the law but also our dedication to protecting the dignity and safety of every resident.”
He also expressed deep appreciation to TMPD officers for their professionalism, dedication, and the personal risks they take to keep communities safe.
He described the success of the operations as the result of effective planning, collaboration with key stakeholders, and a shared commitment to upholding the values enshrined in the Constitution.
Coetzee urged residents to actively support the TMPD’s work by reporting suspicious activities, adhering to the law, and fostering a culture of mutual respect and accountability.
“We hear your concerns, we feel your frustrations, and we are acting.
“Together, we will build a metro defined not by disorder, but by law, dignity and opportunity,” he said.
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