GQEBERHA – A successful joint operation between South African Police Service, SA Air Force, Provincial and Nelson Mandela Bay Traffic Departments and Metro Police were conducted in the greater part of Gqeberha over the past three days from 14 to 16 September 2022.

The special urban operation under the banner of Operation Sikhona, held numerous roadblocks and checkpoints in New Brighton, Kwazakele, Soweto-on-Sea, Central, Walmer, Gelvandale, Bethelsdorp and North End. The SAPS Tactical Response Team (TRT) and the NMB District Crime Combating Unit (CCU) members were transported via SA Air force BK117 helicopters between identified checkpoints. The multi-disciplinary team also saturated the hotspot areas by conducting foot patrols.

During the initial operational briefing, the NMB Deputy District Commander, Brigadier Ronald Koll addressed the various units. He emphasised the importance of conducting more joint operations in future in order to have a greater impact on stabilising high crime areas in the metro.

During the three-day operational period, the impact was noted by Gqeberha citizens as the operations gained momentum through foot and air patrols. Crime statistics in the last three days have proven that the operation was a huge success.

Fines to the value of over R200 000 were issued in terms of road traffic offences at the various roadblocks and checkpoints. A 32-year-old male was also arrested for possession of drugs in Central. He was arrested in Rose Street in Central while the team were conducting search operations in the area.

Source: South African Police Service