At least 30 undocumented persons have been arrested in Krugersdorp during an operation led by Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela.
According to Gauteng Police spokesperson, Brigadier Brenda Muridili, the arrests brings the number of total suspects nabbed to over 130 since the start of the province’s high level operations last Friday.
“The thirty undocumented persons will be processed by the established West Rand Processing Centre before appearing in the Krugersdorp Magistrates’ Court within 48 hours. They are facing charges related to the contravention of the Immigration Act,” Muridili said.
Operations in the area were increased following the gang rape of eight women near a disused mine near the town.
“The operations will be conducted continuously to ensure that the areas where illegal mining activities are prevalent are stabilised.
“[On Wednesday], the team went back to operate at the mining dump near the R28 road in Krugersdorp. They managed to remove plastic structures used by the illegal miners. Another group of members then followed up on information received from the community members as well as Crime Intelligence and raided houses where alleged illegal miners were hiding,” she said.
Muridili explained that the operation has been executed by a multi-disciplinary team with members emanating from the West Rand Crime Intelligence and Visible Policing, Public Order Police, National Intervention Unit, Tactical Response Team, K9 and Bidvest Protea Coin.
Air support for the ground forces was rendered by the SAPS, Fidelity and Tracker helicopters and drones.
She added that members of the community are encouraged to assist police in the arrests of criminals where they live.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report any knowledge of criminal activities in their communities by calling the SAPS Crime Stop toll free number 08600 10111 or to send tip-offs via MySAPS Application which can be downloaded on any smartphone. Information received will be treated with confidentiality and callers may remain anonymous,” Muridili said. – SAnews.gov.za
