The operation involved a collaborative effort between the senior management of Sebenza SAPS, the EMPD, and various other specialized units.
On November 21, Colonel Matshidiso Mbele, the station commander of Boksburg Police Station, led Operation Basadi in the Sebenza policing precinct, a significant initiative aimed at combating crime in the area. The operation, which was held from November 20 to the early hours of November 22, was carried out under the direction of Ekurhuleni District Commissioner, Major General Anna Sithole. Sebenza was chosen for this operation due to its high rates of priority and trio crimes, with 17 cases reported in the last quarter.
Operation Basadi brought together multiple law enforcement and community partners. The Sebenza SAPS senior management, the EMPD, the Johannesburg Tactical Response Team (TRT), the Siyabangena Community in Blue (CPF), private security companies, and the Home Affairs Immigration Unit worked in coordination to address various crime hotspots. The collaborative effort underscored the importance of integrated approaches to policing.
The operation proved successful, with 246 arrests made, including 135 suspects for serious contact crimes like assault GBH and aggravated robbery. In addition, 20 suspects were apprehended for contact-related crimes, 31 for other serious offenses, and 34 arrests were made in relation to gender-based violence. Another notable result was the arrest of 27 illegal immigrants, primarily at a roadblock on Zuurfontein Road, and the shutdown of five spaza shops for non-compliance with regulations.
Beyond arrests, the operation also included preventative measures. The Social Crime Prevention team from Sebenza SAPS engaged with the community at Esther Park Shopping Complex and Flamingo Mall in Modderfontein. Shoppers were provided with safety tips and educated on common crimes affecting malls and ATMs, particularly during the busy festive season.
Major General Anna Sithole praised the successful collaboration between the SAPS, law enforcement agencies, and community partners. She emphasized the vital role of these joint efforts in reducing violent crimes and ensuring the safety of citizens across the district. Operation Basadi exemplifies the ongoing commitment to improving safety in Ekurhuleni through effective, multidisciplinary approaches.
