The SAPS officially launched its annual National Safer Festive Season Operations in KaBokweni, Mpumalanga, on Monday, marking the start of intensified crime-fighting efforts ahead of the busy festive season.

The launch, held in the Ehlanzeni District, brought together senior police leadership, government officials, law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders as the SAPS unveiled its operational plan aimed at improving public safety during the festive period and beyond.

Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia led the launch alongside Deputy Ministers of Police Dr Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale. Acting national SAPS commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane formally presented and handed over the Safer Festive Season Operational Plan to the minister during the event.

Officers march at KaBokweni Stadium

Law enforcement officers from various agencies marched onto the field at KaBokweni Stadium as the national campaign began.

The annual initiative is designed to increase police visibility, strengthen crime prevention efforts and enhance public safety across the country during the year-end period.

Ahead of the launch, police had already begun a series of build-up activities as part of intensified operations targeting criminal activity and ensuring communities feel safe as the festive season approaches.

Senior SAPS management, including divisional commissioners, district commissioners and the provincial commissioner, Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, attended the event, alongside representatives from various law enforcement agencies and stakeholders.

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Campaign targets holiday crime

The Safer Festive Season campaign is one of the SAPS’ flagship operational programmes and focuses on addressing crimes commonly associated with the festive period, including robberies, gender-based violence, drunken driving and other public safety concerns.

Speaking at the launch, police leadership emphasised the importance of co-operation among law enforcement agencies, communities and other stakeholders in creating a safer environment for residents and visitors during the festive season.

The campaign is expected to see increased police deployments, roadblocks, stop-and-search operations and high-visibility patrols in crime hotspots across the country as authorities work to prevent and combat crime throughout the festive season.

Power outage delays Radebe murder case bail hearing at the eMalahleni Magistrate’s Court today, October 12. Read more here: https://t.co/MPQznl1mJ5 https://t.co/bW8W0NlDSU

— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) October 12, 2026

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