BROWNS FARM, WESTERN CAPE — In a significant push to enhance security and address persistent criminal activities, a substantial contingent of police officers conducted targeted operations in Browns Farm on Friday afternoon, August 2, 2024. The operations, which involved high-density patrols and checks, were led by Western Cape Provincial Commissioner Lt Gen Thembisile Patekile, alongside other senior officials.
According to South African Police Service, the decision to focus on Browns Farm was driven by the area’s high rates of hijackings, armed robberies, and other forms of criminality. The operations included stop-and-search actions on Sheffield Road and New Lisbon Street in Philippi, where officers inspected motor vehicles, including taxis and minibuses, known locally as amaphela. The police presence was met with positive reactions from the community, with residents expressing relief and school children showing visible excitement.
A local resident, observing the police activity from her yard, shared her concerns about the daily crimes committed in the area, particularly around the intersection of New Lisbon and Sheffield roads. She recounted frequent incidents of hijackings, smash-and-grabs, and armed robberies, and even nightly gunshots. Her anonymity was preserved due to fears of reprisal, but she expressed a desire for a permanent police presence.
During the operations, police also uncovered illegal activities, including a suspect openly selling dagga, who was arrested. Unlicensed taxi drivers, underage drivers, stolen vehicles, and illegal firearms were among the violations addressed by the police.
Lt Gen Patekile emphasized that this was not a one-time event but part of ongoing high-density operations through Operation Shanela, intended to maintain a constant police presence in crime hotspots. The establishment of a new Satellite Police Station in Browns Farm, staffed by 40 officers, marks a significant step towards achieving lasting safety and security in the area.
