The long weekend was a busy one for the West Rand Police with 161 arrests being made during intensified crime-prevention operations.
In a statement from West Rand District Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Peter Masooa, the operation started at 06:00 on Friday, September 24 and lasted until 06:00 on Monday, September 26.
He said although the operation was a success and contributed towards the community feeling safe, their normal policing would continue.
Those arrested will be appearing in court for various crimes, which included:
• Three people for murder
• 19 people for assault with the intention to cause grievous bodily harm
• Three people for domestic assault
• Three people for rape
• One person for attempted murder
• 34 people for drunk driving
• Three people for housebreaking and theft
• Three people for malicious damage to property
• Three for malicious damage to property and contravention of a protection order
• Six people for theft
• One person for hijacking
• Three people for possession of drugs
• Six people for possession of a dangerous weapon
• One person with an outstanding warrant of arrest
• 17 for contravening the national Disaster Management Act regulations
• One person for operating a liquor outlet during curfew
• One person for intimidation
• One person for arson
Others were arrested for contravening a protection order, being undocumented and trespassing.
According to Masooa, the West Rand District Police Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana was delighted that the police members were so committed to combating crime.
He added that policing is a concerted effort and that the information the community shares with the police just shows the trust that the community of the West Rand has, and this is very much appreciated.
There is an increase in hijackings around the West Rand area and the police would like to warn motorists to be vigilant when using the N12, N14, R41, R559, R500, R501, R563, M13, R24, R28 and Impala Roads, as criminals pretend to be police. They will show you that you have flat tyre, and indicate to truck drivers that something has fallen from the truck. Recently these hijackers have also been taking vehicles in the suburbs while the victims are opening and closing their gates,” said Masooa.
The police shared some safety tips to help prevent hijackings:
• Always drive with your doors locked.
• If you suspect you are being followed drive to the nearest police station or a busy public area.
• Do not stop when another driver shows you that you have a flat tyre or that something is wrong on your vehicle.
• Do not give any hitchhikers lifts.
• If strangers are loitering or there is a suspicious vehicle near your driveway, rather drive past first.
• Limit your night trips or at least take someone along.
The police want to continue encouraging the public to report any criminal activity to their nearest police station immediately.
You can also make use of the Crime Stop Line on 08600 10111, the My SAPS app or the SMS line on 32211.
