While many travellers look forward to a much-needed rest over the December holidays, police confirmed that there is no holiday for criminals during the national launch of the 2026/27 Safer Festive Season Operation at the KaBokweni Stadium on Monday.

Acting national commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said the festive season should be defined by celebration and safety rather than violence and criminality.

The deputy minister of police, Cassel Mathale, said officers would work around the clock to ensure the safety of communities and visitors across the country for a peaceful season.

He said motorists can expect increased police visibility on major roads, alongside stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Shopping centres, tourist destinations and other busy public spaces will receive attention as part of efforts to prevent crime and protect the public.

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The operation also aims to strengthen border security, target illicit trade and strengthen security arrangements for the 2026 local government elections.

Residents urged to help fight crime

Mpumalanga MEC for community safety, security and liaison Jackie Macie said fighting crime requires more than police deployments, calling on residents to play an active role in keeping their communities safe.

“The police cannot win this fight alone,” said Macie. “We appeal to the people of Mpumalanga and the broader South African public to take ownership of their streets and exercise their civic power.”

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He urged residents to report criminal activities, support their local community policing forums and refuse to buy stolen goods or illegal gold, which can provide income for criminal networks. Macie also stressed the importance of protecting women, children and older people from abuse and exploitation.

Fleet handover boosts capacity

To strengthen operational capacity, Mathale, Deputy Minister of Police Polly Boshielo, Macie, Ehlanzeni District Mayor Terra Shabangu and Dimpane handed over 66 new vehicles and motorcycles to operational teams.

A highlight of the launch was a demonstration of police capabilities, during which three police officers jumped from a SAPS helicopter at an altitude of about 8 000ft.