Latest news with #AnnaSithole
The Citizen
12-08-2025
- The Citizen
256 suspects arrested in women-led Operation Basadi in Ekurhuleni
A total of 256 suspects were arrested during Operation Basadi in Ekurhuleni, a joint effort led by women in blue and their partners to tackle crime in the area. The operation took place from August 6 and 7 in Alberton, Moffat View, Eastcliff and Oakdene. The initiative was led by female officers from various law enforcement agencies, including the SAPS, EMPD and Gauteng Traffic Police. According to Ekurhuleni district commissioner Major General Anna Sithole, the operation was a success, with detectives arresting 237 wanted suspects during tracing operations across the district. These included suspects linked to contact crimes, property crimes and gender-based violence cases. EMPD spokesperson Captain Kgotso Letang praised the teamwork and dedication of the women involved. 'The EMPD is proud to have been part of this operation, which demonstrates our commitment to working together with other law enforcement agencies to keep our communities safe,' said Letang. Operation Basadi also included awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives. Social Crime Prevention teams went door to door raising awareness about house robberies and distributing safety pamphlets to motorists. Community imbizos were held in various areas across Ekurhuleni, giving residents the chance to voice their concerns about policing in their neighbourhoods. Major General Sithole commended the women in law enforcement for their hard work and dedication, saying their efforts are making a real difference in reducing crime across Ekurhuleni. The success of Operation Basadi is a testament to the power of teamwork and collaboration in keeping communities safe.
The Citizen
04-08-2025
- The Citizen
Elandsfontein residents raise concerns over SAPS response and corruption
Community concerns over delayed police response times, officer corruption, and accessibility to local services were brought to the fore during an SAPS imbizo held in Elandsfontein. The meeting, part of Operation Shanela and led by Ekurhuleni District Commissioner Major General Anna Sithole, aimed to strengthen crime-fighting efforts and rebuild trust between SAPS and the community. Deputy District Commissioner Brigadier Lebohang Machakela acknowledged the challenges raised and encouraged residents to formally report corruption claims for proper investigation. ALSO READ: Over 12 000 illegal firearms destroyed in major Gauteng police operation 'We urge residents to work with us and our partners, from patrollers and security companies to other law enforcement agencies,' he said. Concerns over the permanent employment of volunteer patrollers were also discussed, alongside the ongoing call for a satellite police station in Elandsfontein. Brigadier Machakela said a work-study process must first assess population, crime statistics, and infrastructure before such a facility can be approved. For now, a mobile Community Service Centre continues to serve the area. ALSO READ: Over 12 000 illegal firearms destroyed in major Gauteng police operation The imbizo followed a two-day blitz across the district, which resulted in 241 arrests between July 30 and 31. These included: • 136 arrests for contact crimes • 51 related to gender-based violence • 8 for property-related offences • 30 for other serious crimes At Bedfordview Police Station, SAPS spearheaded the operation of the day, focusing on hijackings and robberies near major highways such as Gillooly's Interchange. The results included: • 29 undocumented foreign nationals arrested • A drug possession arrest • 13 taxis impounded • 23 traffic fines issued (R7 400 total) • A fine issued for non-compliance with second-hand goods regulations 'Even when we do not catch criminals, our presence helps deter them,' said Brigadier Machakela. 'We are deploying based on crime data and known hotspots.' Beyond enforcement, SAPS members and the Bedfordview CPF (BCPF) closed off Mandela Month with warmth and compassion, donating over 100 blankets to the Avril Elizabeth Home for the Handicapped and The Arbor Village Old Age Home. The initiative was supported by local businesses such as TNT Perfo Exhaust and Edenvale Knitwits. Carol Büser of the Avril Elizabeth Home expressed gratitude, noting the home's 154 residents, ranging from children to the elderly, rely heavily on donations for essentials such as food, clothing, and toiletries. 'We care for the forgotten people, and they still deserve dignity, stimulation, and care,' she said. 'This blanket donation means more than words can say.' BCPF's James Chang highlighted the importance of community support beyond policing. 'Safety is important, but compassion changes lives. We encourage others to donate and help warm someone's winter. It is how we end Mandela Month, with love and purpose.' The initiative continues beyond July, inviting ongoing community and business participation.
The Citizen
08-07-2025
- The Citizen
Over 140 suspects arrested during Ekurhuleni crime crackdown led by SAPS
Over 140 suspects arrested during Ekurhuleni crime crackdown led by SAPS In an ongoing effort to address serious and violent crimes, SAPS members and other law enforcement agencies attached to the Ekurhuleni District conducted extensive operations from the afternoon of July 5 through to the morning of July 6. The operations included stop-and-search activities, vehicle checkpoints, tavern visits and roadblocks. As a result, four illegal liquor outlets were closed. During suspect-tracing operations conducted by detectives on July 5 across various policing precincts in Ekurhuleni, 142 suspects were arrested. ALSO READ: Targeted crime blitz across Ekurhuleni results in big successes Of these, 62 were apprehended for contact crimes, 26 for contact-related crimes, 13 for property crimes, 21 for GBV and 137 for other serious crimes. Additional arrests were made during Operation Shanela, which was conducted across Ekurhuleni policing precincts and included SAPS, EMPD, Gauteng Traffic, CPF members, community patrollers, crime prevention wardens, and other law enforcement agencies. In one incident in Norkem Park, police conducting a stop-and-search operation on Isimu Street in Birch Acres stopped a silver Suzuki Swift. Officers found the driver in possession of a Bronwyn firearm with ammunition and without a licence. ALSO READ: 82 suspects arrested in Gauteng crime crackdown Further investigation revealed the firearm had been reported stolen at SAPS Tubatse in Limpopo in May 2016. The suspect was arrested and detained at Norkem Park Police Station. Ekurhuleni district commissioner, Major General Anna Sithole, commended SAPS members and law enforcement partners for their efforts in ensuring suspects are removed from the streets and face the full might of the law. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
