Sunnyside police up visibility toward festive season
Activities carried out included roadblocks, stop-and-searches and search-and-seizures.
The Sunnyside SAPS conducted various multidisciplinary operations this weekend in the area as part of efforts to heighten visibility as the festive season approaches.
Known for her no-nonsense approach to crime-fighting, Sunnyside SAPS station commander, Brigadier Matshidiso Kgoadi led the effort from the front lines along her fellow servicemen and women. They were joined by the Tshwane metro police department and the metro’s Waste Management Department.
Activities carried out included roadblocks, stop-and-searches as well as search-and-seizures. SAPS Communications officer, Captain Daniel Mavimbela, says that the operation was done to “disrupt criminal activities and restore sanity and cleanliness in Sunnyside”.
Roadblocks were further optimised to inform motorists and residents of the dangers of gender-based violence (GBV) and other crimes as well as inspect vehicle safety and compliance. Pamphlets containing the relevant information were distributed, and officers chatted with some of the residents on how to keep safe and not fall victim to criminals.
“Within the Sunnyside CBD, hawkers and second-hand goods dealers were targeted. Items like refrigerators, mattresses, couches and retread types were seized from the pavements and dealers thereof were issued with warnings,” said Mavimbela.
In addition to the aforementioned, a mother was also taken into custody for public drinking after she was spotted by authorities on a pavement drinking from a 750ml beer bottle.
The Sunnyside SAPS believe the effort was a success as they in partnership with the metro’s waste management team were able to clear areas rampant with litter and property of hawkers, especially in more congested areas. This comes after the metro recently announced that it spent over R146-million this year on clearing up illegal dumping sites.
“Following the law enforcement blitz, especially on the most congested road in Sunnyside, Robert Sobukwe Street, sanity and cleanliness were re-established and a sense of normality returned to the CBD,” concluded Mavimbela.
Sunnyside SAPS are expecting new recruits to join their ranks toward the end of the year to supplement the current force and increase presence in the area as the festive season approaches.
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