Visibility could be considered half the battle when combating crime. When the reflective jackets of authorities dot the streets, potential criminals scurry to darker corners.
In an effort to bring an increased policing presence to the wards of Johannesburg, Mayor Geoff Makhubo and Public Safety MMC, Mally Mokoena, welcomed the addition over 1 000 extra Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers to the City’s streets. A central event was held in Orange Farm on Tuesday, 2 December, with each region being able to follow it live on the big screens set up at each regional office.
New JMPD recruits lined up in the blazing heat at the Region C JMPD office on Fitzwygram Street, eager to be welcomed into the law-enforcement ranks. Deputy Director Sisa Mvumvu addressed the officers before handing the stage to City of Johannesburg Finance MMC, Jolidee Matongo, who congratulated the officers on their passion and commitment to keeping the community safe.
The Joburg10plus is a ward-based deployment that aims to have at least 10 officers stationed in every ward at any time. It places an emphasis on increased visibility to reduce crime, enforcing bylaws, and apprehending and removing drunk drivers from the roads. A key facet to the campaign is the launch of a specialised Anti Land Invasion Unit, which will soon start to act against illegal land invasion in the City of Johannesburg.
