![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2016/01/05BECRIMECOPS2D_37051.jpg)
The Bedfordview SAPS kicked off the new year with a new message to criminals.
According to the Bedfordview SAPS spokesperson, Warrant Officer Mduduzi Nhlabathi, the station has launched Operation High Visibility (OHV).
The campaign is one of the new approaches the station will take to fighting crime in the area.
“We want to send a strong message to criminals that our officers are back [from holidays] and we are more determined to continue in the fight,” said W/O Nhlabathi.
He said during this time of the year, criminals come back to “work” because they know residents have also returned from holidays.
“Well, as the station, we will make sure our residents feel safe in their own space. The community must continue engaging with us going forward, as we rely on them for information,” he said.
W/O Nhlabathi said although contact crimes are not a concern for the station since the year started, cases of housebreaking and theft out of motor vehicles were reported.
During last Friday’s instalment of the OHV, officers nabbed three men for possession of dagga worth R3 500.
“All the officers were in plain clothes and unmarked vehicles. This year we promise the criminals a lot of surprises. They will not see us coming,” said W/O Nhlabathi.
He said the operation, conducted by members of Vispol, was lead by Captain Simphe Makopo.
W/O Nhlabathi said the SAPS will continue to work closely with local security companies and the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) in the fight against crime.