POLOKWANE – The city recorded no major fatal accidents or murders over the weekend, but the Community Policing Forum (CPF) has warned that the calm masks a rise in money-driven crimes as thousands travelled for pilgrimages, festivals and the long weekend.

CPF chairperson Rudolph Phaswana told Polokwane Observer that recent crimes appear to be driven by quick money rather than an intent to kill, although robberies can turn violent.

“This weekend was no different,” he said, citing pickpocketing and theft from and out of motor vehicles in the CBD, with electronics and cash among the main items stolen.

No major road incidents recorded

Polokwane traffic spokesperson Kgaogelo Mphago said no major incidents were recorded in the city. He thanked motorists for responsible road use and noted the high visibility of municipal, provincial and national traffic officers.

3 major events drove traffic

Traffic volumes increased due to three major events:

• The St Engenas ZCC September pilgrimage
• The Heritage Day weekend
• The Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival in Vhembe

Polokwane served as a route to these destinations. The school holiday also contributed to increased holiday traffic.

Traffic data from Nyl Plaza

Data from the Department of Transport and Community Safety showed that Nyl Plaza recorded:

• 1 576 vehicles travelling southbound at 10:00 AM on Sunday
• 1 585 vehicles travelling northbound at 4:00 PM on Friday

Warning: Residential burglaries during school holidays

With schools closed, the CPF warned residents to be alert to the increased risk of residential burglaries and urged them to take precautions.

“The CPF relies on eyes-and-ears groups,” Phaswana said, urging residents to:

• Test their alarm systems
• Lock perimeter gates
• Ask neighbours to clear mailboxes and create signs of activity while they are away

He added that volunteer patrol numbers typically drop during holiday periods as many patrollers also travel.

Report suspicious activity

Phaswana urged residents to play an active role in protecting their neighbourhoods by reporting suspected criminal activity or other concerns to the police.