A total of 157 people have been arrested during yet another mass operation held by all 13 police stations in the West Rand District and other law-enforcement agencies over the weekend.
According to Warrant Officer Peter Masooa, West Rand District Police spokesperson, police strive to continue making the community feel safe and protected.
It is our mandate to prevent, combat and investigate crime, maintain law and order, as well as protect the inhabitants of the District. We dealt with liquor-related crimes in order to minimise accidents and culpable homicides, addressed violet crimes, and also checked if people were adhering to the Disaster Management Act regulations.”
Those arrested (total number in brackets) committed various crimes including murder (two); assault with GBV (four); common assault (four); rape (one); domestic violence (10); armed robbery (one); common robbery (five); malicious damage to property (five); housebreaking (one); theft (one); theft of motor vehicle (three); possession of drugs (12); drunken driving (38); possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition (three); possession of stolen property (four); extortion (one); and contravention of the Disaster Management Act regulations (43).
In addition, Masooa said others arrested committed various crimes including shoplifting; possession of illicit goods; dangerous weapons; dealing in liquor without a licence; dealing in dagga; outstanding warrants of arrest; drunkenness; crimen injuria; intimidation; and undocumented persons.
All those arrested will appear in their respective Magistrates’ Courts in the District soon.
He also gave the following safety tips for motorists:Â
• Do not leave valuable items exposed in the vehicle
• Do not park vehicles in deserted parking areas
• Reinforce the alarm system
• Talk to a trusted car watcher
• Check before leaving your vehicle
• Check physically whether the vehicle is locked after activating your alarm system
• Always park close to the shop you visit
Major General Fred Kekana, the West Rand District Police commissioner welcomed the successes for the weekend and thanked all members and other law-enforcement agencies for making sure that those who are in conflict with the law are brought to book.
Kekana also condemned the act of gender-based violence in communities, and requested the community to report such behaviour to police immediately.
He further encourages the community to report any criminal activities to the police on the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, use My SAPS app or SMS number 32211 and remain anonymous.
