Operation Paseka – Gauteng law enforcement agencies combine forces to deal with criminality

The SAPS, Metro Police Departments and Gauteng Traffic members have combined forces to deal with criminality and appeal for co-operation and information from the members of the community to deal with violent and serious crimes including armed robberies. Crime prevention, “Operation Paseka” is already in operation to deal with criminality during school holidays and Good Friday holidays and there is increased visibility at shopping malls.

Members of the public should always take care of the following at shopping malls:

• Make sure that all the doors and windows are properly locked when you park your car
• Not to accept help from strangers at the shopping malls
• Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using the ATM
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Do not leave valuable property in plain view on the vehicle seats
• Always inform security if there are any suspicious activities.

When travelling, the following should be avoided:

• Not to offer lifts to strangers
• Not to stop at the signal of strangers as car hijackers may stage a minor accident so they can approach your car
• Look out for suspicious vehicles following especially towards destination
• Be aware of people coming to you and informing you that you have a flat tire, the intention can be to steal items that they see inside the car or rob your car
• Be careful of smash and grabbers at intersections especially in the early hours of the morning or late in the afternoon.

When at home, members of the public should always take care of the following:

• Do not allow strangers access to your premises or into your home without having properly identifying the person, especially at night.
• Ensure that all gates and doors are locked at all times, and that windows are closed when you are not at home.
• Train your nanny, housekeeper or caretaker and older children about crime awareness and what steps to take during emergency situations
• Keep emergency numbers of police and the local police station on speed dial.

Over the weekend police also arrested more than 300 people for crimes ranging from possession of suspected stolen property, theft, armed robbery, attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearms. A total of thirteen firearms (13) were recovered in areas including Lenasia, Evaton, Johannesburg Central, Pretoria Moot and Sharpville. Police are also appealing to the members of the community to report any suspicious activities to Crime Stop by dialling 08600 10111.