26 people were arrested yesterday afternoon after the City conducted a crime prevention operation in several hijacked properties in Hillbrow, Johannesburg.
The operation was led by the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Services Unit in conjunction with the South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Home Affairs, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Emergency Management Services (EMS) and the City’s Environmental Health, Citizen Relationship and Urban Management and Social Development departments.
The properties that were targeted during the operation include the Wimbledon Court, Glenwood Court, a property on 25 Koch Street and Wellington Court.
One suspect wanted for various crimes was arrested during the operation. The suspect was also in possession of various motor vehicle keys.
A total of 25 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested during the operation and detained at the Hillbrow Police Station. Immigration officers from the Department of Home Affairs will now process those who were arrested to ascertain relevant information and will appear in court within 48 hours.
The operation also focused on collecting data on the occupants living in the buildings, including sex, age and employment status. It is vital that we profile occupants living in these buildings and ensure that together with the rightful owners we are able to find alternative accommodation for them where required. A consolidated report is currently being compiled by the relevant departments.
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.
I want to see rundown buildings turned into quality low cost housing for our residents and affordable rental spaces for small businesses.
We are committed to ensuring that we stop the rot in our inner city 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 yesterday’s successful operation, especially the SAPS and Home Affairs for their continued support.