Operation Basadi, a high-impact, female-led crime prevention initiative, launched at Kraaifontein Police Station on Friday, resulted in multiple arrests, firearm seizures, vehicle checks, and community outreach operations across the area.
Led by Brig Zukiswa Matumbu, the operation brought together female officers from Kraaifontein police, neighbouring police stations and members from the Western Cape provincial police head office. The day began with a formal parade and opening prayer by the Spiritual Crime Prevention team, followed by a briefing outlining the operational goals.
The initiative kicked off with a large-scale school safety operation at Bloekombos High School where 887 learner bags and 21 vehicles were searched as students entered the school premises. During the operation, a 45-year-old woman was arrested for driving under the influence and later released on a warning.
In a significant find, members searched a silver Kia Sportage and discovered a Norinco 7.62 calibre rifle and eight rounds of ammunition concealed in the spare wheel compartment. The firearm was confiscated and submitted as evidence.
Simultaneously, a vehicle check point around the school area resulted in 47 vehicles being inspected. A separate roadblock on Frans Conradie Road, conducted in collaboration with law enforcement, saw 1 300 vehicles screened, 222 searched, and traffic fines totaling R22 500 issued for various offences, including unlicensed driving.
Communities made safer
Further community-focused operations included a mini community service centre set up at Shoprite block centre, where residents could access police services such as document certification and information on domestic and gender-based violence. Approximately 1 750 pamphlets were distributed to the public.
Police also served 11 protection orders related to domestic violence cases and conducted second-hand goods inspections with the law enforcement metal unit. One illegal scrap dealer in Klipbok Street, Scottsdene, led to the arrest of a 25-year-old man for possession of stolen municipal property and operating without a second-hand goods dealer registration.
“Upon inspection at the illegal scrap dealer the officer and members found a wheelie bin valued at approximately R600 as well as two steel municipality wheelie bin wheels valued at R500 that were the property of the City of Cape Town,” says a police spokesperson.
In Wallacedene’s Takudi and Hani Streets, known crime hotspots, officers conducted a walkabout with Community in Blue patrols. During this time, Western Cape Flying Squad officers received an alert for a White Foton taxi linked to a Midrand fraud case from April. The 33-year-old driver was arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle.
Brig Matumbu praised the officers’ dedication and encouraged the community to continue supporting police officers in their fight against crime. “This operation demonstrates our ongoing commitment to making our communities safer,” she said. “We need every citizen to stand with us in eradicating criminal activity.”
