Alex police will join the police countrywide to implement Operation Safer Festive Season through heavy police visibility with thousands of officers deployed in malls and on the streets.
The exercise will last until the end of January 2018. While wishing all residents a good festive season, prosperous 2018 and a well-deserved rest, acting station commander Colonel Johannes Tau said criminals won’t be resting and will exploit residents’ relaxed mood.
Read: 7 fatal festive season stabbings in Alex
“Don’t be reckless, party responsibly and look after yourself and your belongings which the criminals are targeting in your homes, when you share it with friends and family and when you are walking in the streets and on outings,” Tau said.
Police, reservists and community police forum patrollers will be on high alert and are already deployed in malls and on the street for visibility, as a deterrent and for quick reaction day and night.
He urged that extra care should be taken with children in crowded malls. They should be warned against gift offers and promises about outings by strangers.
Read: Healthy Friday: Help your pancreas survive the festive season
“Don’t let them talk to strangers. You too should [be wary of] strangers who want to help you at ATMs. Avoid being distracted and [swindled of] your money. Also, don’t buy any suspected stolen items and always look after your belongings,” said Tau.
He warned the public against irresponsible drinking and added that most crimes are usually associated with alcohol consumption. “The operation will conduct a regular blitz on illegal shebeens, especially on weekends when consumption and crime are highest. Unlicensed outlets will be closed and fined and licensed taverns operating after hours and violating other liquor law provisions will also be fined and monitored closely.”
Read: Justice for lying ATM robber
He warned against drinking and driving because it causes many deaths, injuries and damage to property. “Please care for others and pedestrians who also have the right to use roads.”
Tau advised people who are going on holiday to inform their neighbours that they won’t be home. “Ask a relative to stay in your home or to come and switch your lights on and off so that it [looks as if] you are present.”
He also asked residents to report those who are abusing the elderly and children so that they can be prosecuted.
Details: Alex Police Station 011 431 7621
