Muldersdrift crime fighting interventions yield results

The intervention in Muldersdrift came after there was a spike in crime, including murder, robbery and theft, in the area.

Acting Gauteng Police Commissioner, Major-General Phumzo Gela, on Wednesday, 27 February 2013, said following the visit on 23 January 2013 to the area by Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mzwandile Petros, a number of interventions were immediately put in place.

Petros visited the area to listen to the community's concerns regarding crime, and during the meeting, the community committed to work with the police.

The meeting also resulted in the formation of a task team consisting of several organisations, led by the Community Policing Forum, to ensure that the area is safe.

Other interventions included the deployment of extra police vehicles on the N14, as well as on Beyers Naude Drive.

"We've increased the deployment of forces. We have deployed 10 members of the Public Order Policing, especially during the night. Assistance is also given from the provincial office in the form of the Flying Squad and Equestrian Unit due to the [area's] terrain," Gela said.

The committee also visited Clinic Road and six churches, where they engaged community members on helping the police by sharing information, as well as establishing trust between them and the police.

Gela said through cooperation with the community and the work of the task team, crime in the area could be further reduced.

Gauteng Community Provincial Board Chairperson, Andy Mashaile, commended the interventions and committee's cooperation with the police.

Investigations into a number of crimes committed in the area last year are underway. Most of the suspects arrested for various crimes, including murder, are in custody and currently appearing in court.