This past weekend a District-wide crime-prevention campaign was held in all 13 precincts, and numerous arrests were made.
West Rand District Police spokesperson, Sergeant Mulalo Ndou explained that the operation was conducted between Friday, August 8 and Sunday, August 22.
“Police in the West Rand District continue to make sure that their community feels safe and protected as it is their mandate to prevent, combat and investigate crime, maintain law and order, and protect and secure the inhabitants of the District.”
The South African Police Service joined forces with other law-enforcement agencies and dealt with liquor-related crimes which, according to Ndou was done to minimise accidents and culpable homicides.
Arrests were made for serious crimes, and included one for attempted murder; 25 for domestic-violence related crimes; 16 for drunk driving; 18 for possession of drugs; three for robbery; one for possession of copper cable; and 110 for contravening the Disaster Management Act Regulations and failing to confine.
Other arrests were for crimes such as assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm; shoplifting; possession of a dangerous weapon; malicious damage to property; dealing in liquor without a licence; common assault; warrants of arrest; intimidation; and being an undocumented person.
In one incident the body of a woman was found in the bushes at a dumping site in Randfontein. “It is alleged that six males took her there, then raped and killed her. During the police’s preliminary investigation one suspect was traced, arrested and charged with rape and murder of the deceased; the other five suspects are still on the run.”
Ndou said the Randfontein Police are urging the community to please assist with any information that could lead to the arrest of the other suspects.
They can be contacted on 08600 10111, via the My SAPS app, or by using the SMS number 32211 if you want to remain anonymous.
He reminded the community to adhere to level three of the lockdown regulations, and that drivers must refrain from driving while they are under the influence of alcohol, as they can cause accidents that could lead to the death or serious injuries of other innocent road users.
According to Ndou the West Rand District Police commissioner, Major General Fred Kekana welcomed the weekend’s successes 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 and face the full might of the law.
“He also condemned the act of gender-based violence in our communities, and requested the community to report such behaviour to the police immediately. He further encouraged the community to report any criminal activities to the police.”
Those arrested will appear in the different Magistrates’ Courts around the District.
