The police have confirmed that multiple arrests were made and numerous liquor outlets fined during yesterday’s (5 June) major rural crime prevention operation held in Westonaria.
According to Sergeant Audrey Sefara, the Westonaria Police spokesperson, the operation, dubbed ‘Operation O Kae Molao’, was held jointly by members of the police on the West Rand, the Community Policing Forum (CPF), local security company, EPR Security, and community patrollers.
She said the Westonaria precinct, including Venterspost and the Libanon dumping site, is plagued with various crimes.
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“This operation focused mostly on illegal miners, undocumented person, illegal liquor outlets, and incidents of hijacking along the N12 and surrounding national roads, including targeting of courier as well as delivery vans.
“High visibility was maintained, and stop-and-searches were also conducted at the N12/ R28 four- way stops for about three hours. This is the site of a number of previously reported hijackings and incidents of obstruction of motorists by illegal hawkers.
“Three courier vehicles were inspected and one courier driver was reported to the owner for ferrying unauthorised persons in a vehicle that was en-route to deliver gate motors. The unauthorised passenger was also in possession of suspected stolen goods.
“The arrests included one person for crimen injuria and hampering police officers in the performance of their duty, 18 undocumented persons, two who were in possession of suspected stolen property, and four for being in possession of dangerous weapons. Two copper bars were also confiscated.”
In addressing liquor compliance, Sergeant Sefara said six liquor outlets were fined and a liquor store inspected where the owner was issued with a fine for selling imported liquor. A total of 24 sealed 1-litre bottles of imported liquor were also seized.”
Major General Fred Kekana, the West Rand Police District Commissioner, commended all parties involved in the operation, including the community volunteers, for taking charge as force multipliers in the fight against crime. Furthermore, he advised unsuspecting motorists to be vigilant at all times and to be careful at four-way stops.
“Partnership policing is an important part of safety,” he added.
