Swartland Municipality’s Law Enforcement and K9 units formed part of a massive road safety and security operation on Thursday evening (31 March) and well into the early morning hours of Friday morning.
The operation, named Operation Choke, formed part of Swartland Municipality’s regular cooperation and execution of safety and security initiatives in conjunction with various other law enforcement agencies and security partners.
The operation was carried out at two locations: the R27 at the Yzerfontein Intersection and the R45 Hopefield Road. The roadblocks were carried out and supported by Darling and Moorreesburg police, the West Coast Rural Flying Squad and K9, Provincial Traffic Darling Rural Protection, Darling and Yzerfontein Neighbourhood Watches, Darling CPF and the Moorreesburg Farm Watch.
The operations at both roadblocks were successful. Various fines were issued for transgressions, including driving without a licence, unlicensed vehicles, not wearing safety belts and incorrect number plates or no number plates at all. Fines to the value of R16 000 were issued for both sites and 140 vehicles were stopped.
Three people were arrested for possession of illegal substances which included tik and Mandrax as well as the illegal possession of a firearm. Cases were opened at the Darling Police Station and the suspects will appear in court soon.
Said Executive Mayor Harold Cleophas: “Cooperation among all stakeholders is necessary for safer roads and safer communities. These joint operations serve as proof of how successful we can be if we combine our limited resources. Moving forward, Swartland Municipality will continue to engage the help of various law enforcement agencies in the public and private sector, not only to improve road safety, but improve the security within our communities.
Thank you to all the partners who have formed part of this operation. As we move towards Easter Weekend, residents and visitors can be assured that we will continue to work across our region to ensure safer roads and neighbourhoods for the entire Swartland.”
