Yesterday, seven suspects were arrested following a crime prevention operation at a hijacked industrial area in Kew, North of Johannesburg.
The suspects will appear in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court today.
The operation was led by the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Services Unit (GFIS) in conjunction with the South African Police Services (SAPS), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), National Traffic Police, Home Affairs, City Power and Johannesburg Water.
The properties that were targeted during the operation are Corner London Road and Third Avenue and 117 11th Road in Kew.
A total of seven undocumented foreign nationals were arrested. Immigration officers from the Department of Home Affairs will process those who were arrested to ascertain relevant information.
Two suspects were arrested for illegally selling liquor. More than 20 cases of alcohol were alcohol were also confiscated during the operation.
It is essential that we bring back the rule of law in our City and take it back from the criminal elements such as landlords who take advantage of desperate people and house them under deplorable conditions.
We have over 700 properties which are confirmed to be hijacked in Johannesburg. 31 properties that were previously in the hands of hijackers have been handed back to the rightful owners.
The rundown buildings across the city should be turned into quality low cost housing for our residents and affordable rental spaces for small businesses.
I am committed to ensuring that the rot in our inner city comes to an end and make it a prosperous and inclusive place for our people to live, work and play.
I would like to thank all the role players involved in the successful operation, especially the SAPS for their continued support.
I would also like to encourage people to report any fraud and corruption activities through our 24hour tipoff hotline 0800 002 587 or visit the offices of GFIS situated at 48 Ameshoff Street, Braamfontein.
Cllr Herman Mashaba
Executive Mayor
City of Joburg
For further information, please contact
Lucky Sindane
Director: Strategic Stakeholder Management
Group Forensic and Investigation Service
Cell: 065 865 0696
Email: LuckySi@joburg.org.za
Or
Luyanda Mfeka
Director of Communications
Office of the Executive Mayor
Cell: 076 171 5978
Email: luyandam@joburg.org.za
