EMALAHLENI – The ongoing “Letsema Operation” continues to make significant strides in restoring order and safety in the Emalahleni CBD, following a recent crackdown on illegal activities. On Friday, September 13, a coordinated sting operation led to the closure of several unregistered shops and the apprehension of undocumented foreign nationals on Jellicoe, Lukin, Plumer, and Duncan Streets. This initiative, spearheaded by the Emalahleni local municipality in collaboration with Witbank SAPS, the Department of Home Affairs, health inspectors, and other governmental agencies, aims to address urban challenges and enhance public safety throughout the city.
Local security firms, the Local Organised Taxi Association (LOTA), and Community Policing Forums (CPF) also played crucial roles in supporting the day’s activities.
This initiative is part of the ongoing “Letsema Operation,” themed “Dlala Indima Yakho, Play Your Part.” It adopts a multifaceted approach, with authorities seizing illicit substances, disconnecting illegal electrical connections, inspecting undocumented immigrants, and investigating hijacked buildings. The objective is to foster a healthy and secure environment throughout the city while addressing pressing urban challenges.
The targeted streets have long been plagued by criminal syndicates that have overtaken buildings, transforming them into hubs for illegal activities. These crime-ridden areas have gained notoriety for lawlessness and have contributed to the deterioration of public services due to unpaid municipal fees and non-compliance with local regulations.
This latest operation represents a significant step towards reclaiming these areas and restoring peace and order to the city. The Emalahleni municipality has confirmed that operations will continue across the city as part of a broader initiative to stabilise communities and ensure compliance with the law.
The municipality has also called on the local community to actively participate in these efforts, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility in combating crime and illicit activities.
“We urge the community to work together with the municipality and play their part in combating this pandemic,” stated municipal spokesperson Lebo Mofokeng.
