TZANEEN – Twenty-one new police officers will join the local station’s force to enhance law enforcement over the festive season.

Brigadier Edward Masinamela, station commander for Tzaneen Police Station, told the Herald that the provincial SAPS had dispatched these additional officers to bolster visible policing efforts during this busy period.

Seven of the new officers will be stationed in the Bolobedu area, known for its heightened activity during the festive season.

The remaining officers will be deployed throughout the Tzaneen CBD, focussing on hotspots such as ATMs.

“Our officers will be visible everywhere during the festive season. We know that it is the busiest time of the year and, unfortunately, that is also the time when criminals are the most active,” said Masinamela.

“Officers who throughout the year were in the office will leave their comfortable chairs and aircon behind to work outside.”

In addition to patrolling shopping malls and other crime hotspots, the station has already initiated a crime prevention campaign to educate the public on how to protect themselves from criminal activities.

Masinamela also requested that school children refrain from making prank calls to the police station during the school holiday, as it congests the telephone lines.

He advised people to avoid crowded places during this period and reassured the Tzaneen community that the police are committed to their safety.

To report a crime at the Tzaneen Police Station, residents can call 079 890 242 or 015 306 2129.