04-08-2025
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.
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'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.
