Two stolen vehicles, including one that was allegedly hijacked in Benoni, were recovered at an O Kae Molao operation in Crystal Park on May 26.
According to Ekurhuleni District SAPS communication officer Captain Neldah Sekgobela, investigations revealed that the vehicle stolen in Benoni was hijacked before the operation and the victim was busy opening a case at the Benoni SAPS when it was recovered.
“Unfortunately the suspect fled on foot upon seeing the roadblock.
“We will be looking for him and forensics will examine the vehicle for his fingerprints,” she said.
The operation started on May 25 and according to Sekgobela, a total of 231 arrests were made.
Also Read: WATCH: Operation O Kae Molao cracks the whip in Benoni
“Among the suspects, 99 were arrested for allegedly committing contact crimes, including armed robbery, murder, rape and common assault. Sixty-eight suspects were arrested for other serious crimes and 31 for gender-based violence incidents.”
In addition, 168 traffic fines to the value of R78 050 were also issued to those who contravened the Road Traffic Act. Furthermore, three vehicles that had their engines tampered with were impounded, four illegal sheebens closed down, and one suspect was arrested for possession of drugs while another was arrested for dealing in dagga.
Illegal mining equipment and explosives were also seized.
Ekurhuleni district commissioner Major General Anna Sithole said they were prompted to come to Crystal Park due to an increase in crime.
“We are on Birch Road where there is a problem of hijackings.
“We brought all our resources to ensure visibility. It is a joint operation with our counterparts from home affairs, Gauteng Traffic Police, EMPD and VICU.
“I appreciate the impact made by the teams because no other crimes were reported in Crystal Park during the operation.
“That shows that the operation yielded successful outcomes.”
Meanwhile SAPS, SANCA, Life Choices, VFR and patrollers conducted a school search and a talk at Crystal Park High, addressing issues such as rape, bullying and teenage pregnancy.
“The members visited two spaza shops to warn the owners to stop selling cigarettes to learners.
“They also conducted a Section Two door-to-door campaign to encourage the community to form a community forum.
“Officers handed out 200 pamphlets and the community was encouraged to report crime,” Sergeant Lerato Mopeli said.
Also Read: O kae molao operation still continues
