JOHANNESBURG Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) released the April performance statistics on May 21, which revealed a significant increase in speeding enforcements as well as recoveries made by the K9 Narcotics and Tactical Unit.
The K9 unit this month recovered 131 firearm ammunition, compared to March’s 19 recoveries. This unit also made 22 arrests in connection with possession of hijacked or stolen motor vehicles. Furthermore, 70 vehicles and 11 firearms were recovered.
Mayor of Johannesburg Herman Mashaba said this is a clear indication and progress of the fight against brazen and armed criminals in Joburg.
“Normal manual speed enforcements nearly doubled in April to 736 from March’s 336. JMPD also recorded 432 897 automated speed enforcements and 484 resident complaint-based manual speed enforcements. This is an indication of our efforts against reckless and negligent driving, which is a serious hazard to road users.
“Efforts to further curb this dangerous behaviour include the launch of the Buya Mthetho hotline at the end of March, which also encourages drivers to safely record and report reckless driving to a WhatsApp hotline. The release of JMPD’s performance during April also indicated the top arrest per region, and 754 total arrests in connection with driving under the influence of alcohol remains the biggest concern,” explained Mashaba.
As revealed in last month’s press conference, JMPD managed to ensure road fatalities during Easter weekend reduced by 81 per cent, with three fatalities recorded compared to 16 recorded in 2018.
The department has been compiling monthly statistics since September and has become a tool of reflection for officers as well as a critical step to informing the residents.
Sadly, safety remains a key concern for many of the residents. Though policing remains a provincial and national competency, per the Constitution, within its limited mandate, the JMPD is working hard to increase the levels of safety within the communities.
“I wish to also thank our officers working beyond the call of duty. Your efforts do not go unnoticed. It is because of you that we are able to serve our residents with pride. As a City, we will continue to do all that is within our power to ensure we create safe and connected communities throughout Johannesburg. We will continue work with our law enforcement authorities to see to it that where arrests are made by JMPD, these cases are not only investigated but also properly prosecuted by law enforcement authorities,” he said.
Residents are encouraged to report illegal activities to the following numbers:
• Anti-Corruption Hotline: 0800 203 712
• Traffic Management Hotline: 080 872 3342
• JMPD emergency number: 011 375 5911/011 758 9620
• Illegal dumping: 082 779 1361 (WhatsApp or SMS along with clear photos)
• Buya Mthetho WhatsApp number: 081 410 6338
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