Police to deploy a task team to bring R80 robbers to book
“We immediately deployed task teams which resulted in the arrest of 12 suspects who are still in police custody for various cases related to murders, rapes and armed robberies.”
A march by the local community to highlight frequent muggings at a bridge across the R80 in the north of Pretoria failed to materialise this morning.
Local law enforcement agencies at the scene did manage to discuss the problem – and found a way forward.
“This issue started in 2021,” said Tshwane police acting district commissioner Brigadier Samuel Thine.
People crossing the bridge towards Wonder Park would be robbed of their belongings.
“We immediately deployed task teams which resulted in the arrest of 12 suspects who are still in police custody for various cases related to murders, rapes and armed robberies.”
Thine said police were at the bridge to monitor the planned march, but it was a “no show” from residents.
In the past six months, nine cases of arm robberies were reported at the bridge.
In most cases, knives were used to intimidate the victims.
Thine said that they have reformed a task team that was looking at possible suspects.
Feedback will be given once an arrest has been made.
Police stations in the area have put together a combat team which will be monitoring crime hotspots along the R80.
“I have also spoken to the community safety MMC on possibly putting streetlights in the area because it is very dark during the night.”
Akasia CPF chairperson Kenneth Mathabatha said it was an unsafe area.
“Even if a fence could be placed, people would break it because this highway is used by taxis to drop off passengers,” he said.
“We will speak to the taxi associations so that they rather drive into Wonder Park and drop the passengers off there, instead of leaving them along the freeway, which is unsafe.
“We are hoping to organise another march for community members. It is an important issue to highlight. Community members must be discouraged from using the R80 in an unsafe manner.”
Thine asked the public to report such cases and share any info on the suspects.
“They are welcome to contact me with any information on 082 416 3701.”
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