SAPS to combat crime this festive season
With the festive season in full swing, the criminal element will be upping its game to prey on law abiding citizens.
The SAPS is fully prepared to swoop onto felonious fiends this December.
During a media briefing on Wednesday, December 4, SAPS Station Commander Bhekani Buthelezi warned that police officers would be embarking on regular patrols, both day and night.
“We will also be conducting stop-and-search operations, as well as other crime prevention procedures. We will leave no stone unturned.”
While asking that residents report all criminal activities to the police, Brigadier Buthelezi further requested that community members refrain from excessive alcohol use and maintain a sense of control during the upcoming festive parties.
“Law abiding citizens must bear with us, but we will be doing our best to ensure the safety of the community as a whole,” he said.
Adding to Brigadier Buthelezi’s cautionary words, Bheki Zikalala from the Community Policing Forum (CPF), said people are urged not to leave any valuables in their vehicles.
“This is an invitation for someone to break into your car.”
Mr Zikalala further urged people to ensure their car doors were locked at all times.
With criminals using remote devices to jam the electronic locks of vehicles, Mr Zikalala said one should not take it for granted that the car was locked after the push of a button.
Fanie van Vuuren, the chairperson of Business against Crime(BAC), further emphasised the importance of locking one’s car doors while travelling in town.
“Keeping the car’s windows closed are also a way to minimise the chances of being robbed while driving through town.”
By being vigilant, cautious and following the law, Brigadier Buthelezi, Mr Zikalala and Mr van Vureen felt that a safe Christmas was an obtainable objective.
