Bekkersdal Police officers took to the streets and stationed themselves along the N12 to raise awareness regarding the scourge of rape incidents and hijackings.
This was on March 3 when they were joined by the Rand West City Traffic Police who helped in conducting a roadblock on the stretch of road, which also falls under their jurisdiction.
• Also read: Three women robbed, raped on the N12
Bekkersdal Police spokesperson Sergeant Linkie Lefakane said the awareness campaign was a success.
“Members from the Bekkersdal Police crime prevention unit joined by the Rand West City traffic police conducted a roadblock along the N12 in a bid to raise awareness on hijackings and rape that are still happening along that route.
Motorists were informed about the dangers of stopping unnecessarily on the road to relieve themselves or offering lifts to hitchhikers.
“They were further sensitised about the rapes that were committed in the open veld near one of the filing stations on the N12,” said Lefakane who added that the Station Commander Colonel Phumelele Matamela also rolled up her sleeves in support of the initiative.
• Also read: N12 hijackings of major concern to police
During this time, the officers handed out a total of 1 500 pamphlets with safety tips.
Traffic officers also carried out their mandate of ensuring that road rules were adhered to and issued two fines to the value of R1 500 for those who were breaking the rules of the road.