VEREENIGING. _ The operation was led by the Sedibeng District Commissioner Major General Zodwa Ettie Molefe.

Present in the operation was district stations, Emfuleni Local Municipality Traffic Department, Sedibeng K9, Prasa, Sedibeng VIS, Gauteng Provincial Traffic, Sedibeng Task Team, and Sedibeng District Management.

Police Spokesperson Captain Thivulawi Tshilate says, “The operation focused on on visiting Scrap Metal Dealers to ensure compliance with the Secondhand Goods Act, as well as Disaster Management Act Level 1 Regulations.

“Police also checked hotspots for transgressions of road traffic regulations. They also conducted a roadblock where motorists, transport industry operators and passengers were monitored for compliance on COVID-19 Level 1 regulations as well as general policing.”

During the operation,illicit cigarettes were seized, four illegal shebeens were closed and various brands of liquor seized.

Tshilate reported that six secondhand goods dealers were issued with fines for non-compliance, 33 traffic fines issued to motorists for violation of Road Traffic Regulations.

“Ten people were arrested for Public Violence along R59 and R61 Roads respectively after barricading and stoning the passing motorists, twenty one illegal Immigrants were also arrested, 21 illegal immigrants were arrested.

“Over 1000 people were searched during Roadblock, Vehicle Control Points,  as well as Stop and searches.”

Molefe congratulated all the participants of the operation on a job well done. Molefe further highlighted their courageousness , team work and commitment towards making the operation a success.

The arrested suspects will appear in Vereeniging Magistrate Court soon.