Suspects arrested for trying to free detainees

FIVE people were arrested and two more are being sought after they were caught trying to open the Traffic Services lock-up vehicle to free arrested drivers during a roadblock in the Hanover Park area.

The officers, according to the City, had arrested 93 taxi drivers for 374 outstanding warrants valued at more than R864 000 within 48 hours during “reclaim warrant operations”.

While officers were busy with one of the operations, seven people arrived at the roadblock and tried to open the vehicle to free the drivers.

“They became violent and tried to force officers away from the door.

“However, other officers intervened and five people were arrested while the other two ran away.

“The warrant detainees were booked in at the Wynberg SAPS station.

“The five were taken to the Philippi SAPS where they were charged with riotous behaviour,” said safety and security mayco member JP Smith.

He said the swift action by other officers as well as the SAPS ensured that no detainee escaped and that they would have their day in court.

“This incident is a classic example of how drivers repeatedly break the law, putting the lives of innocent passengers in danger. Those who tried to free the arrested drivers, who were detained, are just as guilty and should face the consequences of their behaviour,” said Smith.

Combined operations by the City’s traffic services and metro police saw more than 4 000 fines issued for various offences during the past week.

Traffic services also arrested 125 suspects, impounded 70 vehicles and issued more than 370 warrants. Smith said traffic officers also clamped down on illegal street racing in the Strandfontein, Grassy Park and Lentegeur areas where 103 fines for various by-law transgressions were issued.

“The prevalence of illegal street racing is worrying and traffic services will enforce by-laws to ensure law-abiding citizens are protected,” said Smith.