Media Statement from Eastern Cape Media Centre
Corporate Communication
South African Police Service

Port Elizabeth:  On Thursday, 24 March 2016, the Minister of Police, Mr Nkosinathi Nhleko and the Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane, officially launched Operation Lockdown in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.

The following successes were achieved from 29 March to 3 April 2016:

The additional police members deployed from both the National and Provincial offices have made a huge impact in the areas, as the high police visibility has most certainly served to curb serious crime in the Bethelsdorp and Gelvandale precincts.   

The communities of both areas have welcomed the presence of police and have applauded their efforts in arresting suspects and clamping down on drug posts. The SAPS is appreciative to the communities who are providing information and encourage them to continue to do so. Many successes were achieved through information from community members. Information may be reported anonymously on 08600 10111 or to Colonel Ralane on 082 442 1663.  All information reported to police will be treated as strictly confidential. Be the eyes and ears of the police and together we can make our communities safer.

During last week, gang members also received lengthy convictions for gang-related crimes. The multi-disciplinary teams working together on Operation Lockdown are committed to ensuring that criminals that are terrorising the communities of Bethelsdorp and Gelvandale are arrested and brought to book.   

-End-

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Colonel Priscilla Naidu

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