Since the start of week (March 30) police have closed a number of non-essential businesses, including a motor spares shop, as they were operating illegally during the lock down period.
“As law enforcement officers we are doing our part to ensure the safety of our community. Not only are we continuing to fight crime, but we are also patrolling the streets, business sector and industrial sector regularly to make sure everybody complies,” Capt Irwin Norman (SAPS Nigel acting station commander) said.
He urged the residents to stay indoors at all times and reminded that only one person per vehicle will be allowed to visit a supermarket or butchery to buy essential products.
“Perpetrators will be arrested and fined in court. They may even face six months imprisonment,” Capt Norman warned.
Social media outrages over the Alrapark community who is blatantly defying the national lock down, has meanwhile reached Capt Norman and he expressed his concern over the total lack of discipline among community members in this area.
“As we speak, we are busy with operations in Alrapark, especially the rural community of Snake Park where most residents do not have access to the internet or do not even own a television. Our purpose is to keep them informed on the dangers of contracting Coronavirus and how to keep safe by staying indoors and washing their hands regularly,” he concluded.
Crime in general does not take a back seat to a global crisis, but according to Capt Norman, only one break-in has been reported since the start of the lock down. No CPF member or NCOP member is allowed to patrol the streets and the police are also relying on security companies to assist where the need may arise.
He reiterated that residents should continue to report crime, as well as those defying the lock down by phoning SAPS Nigel on 011 812 6503.
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