The law enforcement operation on the N18 was held last Friday, 3 April, where people were screened for Covid-19.

Having had similar operations in Mahikeng, Lichtenburg, Moruleng, Rustenburg, Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp, the MEC visited Taung and Vryburg.

Alpheus Koonyaditse, the spokesperson of Department of Community Safety and Transport Management says in Taung, Police and Traffic officials, as well as officers from the Department of Health worked together in the operation.

During the operation, Health officials conducted on the spot screenings on motorists on the N18, near Dryharts Village.

At least 145 vehicles were stopped and inspected and 121 people screened during the operation. All whom were screened, tested negative for the disease. Among those screened were also taxi commuters.

According to Koonyaditse, the departmental MEC Sello Lehari has been leading these operations in various parts of North West.

“We are having these operations to ensure the implementation and adherence of the lockdown regulations set to combat the spread of Covid-19,” said MEC Lehari in a statement.

The police and traffic officials also had they’re hands full on their side. “30 vehicles were returned for not having necessary permits, with two coming from Free State and Northern Cape. Three were issued with fines for driving without licenses and two for expired vehicle discs,” said Koonyaditse.

MEC Lehari pleads to citizens to take the regulations put in place seriously as the Coronavirus disease doesn’t discriminate.

According to Koonyaditse, the MEC also reminded taxi operators that last Friday, 3 April was the last day for relaxation on the regulations of the lockdown. “He also appealed to everyone who had been exempted to use letters given for what they were issued and desist from abusing them,” he said.