The Johannesburg District of the South African Police Service was out in full force on the morning of 7 January for the latest Okae Molao operation in the Brixton policing precinct.
A total of 15 police stations and the Johannesburg K-9 unit were present to assist Brixton police with the safety and security objectives of the day.
According to the station’s spokesperson, Jeanette Backhoff, the main aim of the operation was to enforce the rules and regulations of lockdown Level 3. She said, “This includes ensuring that people are wearing masks in public and no one is selling or transporting liquor and illegal substances. We also held roadblocks to check drivers and vehicle licences and if there is anything illegal being hidden in the cars.”
The early morning operation resulted in several motorists being stopped on their way to work. Two taxi drivers were found to not have drivers’ licences and one of the vehicle’s licence disc had expired. Both drivers received fines while the owners of the taxis were contacted and questioned why they allowed unlicensed drivers to be on the road transporting people.
Brixton police thanked the other stations for their assistance in making the area safer for the public. Sophiatown Police Station spokesperson, Captain TJ de Bruyn encouraged the stations to continue working together. He said, “This is not a one-off thing, we are always working together in all of our areas to fight crime. We are always there to help each other out because that is the only way to win this battle.”
The police pleaded with the community to work with them to reduce crime in the area. Anyone looking to report a crime or suspicious behaviour is encouraged to contact the police for assistance.
Members of the public have been advised that they can share such information anonymously.
