Police inspection of festive season operations to wind down in KZN

As the country heads into the Christmas long weekend, KwaZulu-Natal police said the last leg of the Festive Season Inspection Roadshow is expected to come to a close in the coastal cities of the province.

Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele, will lead the annual Festive Season Inspection Roadshow in KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday.

Police spokesperson Lirandzu Themba said the three-day inspections form part of efforts by the South African Police Service, to channel resources to areas where they are most needed.

Police operations

“This will enable the police to decisively deal with crime and any security threats this holiday season and beyond under the theme, ‘More boots on the ground towards enhanced police visibility’.”

“The ministry together with the SAPS management team from national and provincial, led by the National Commissioner of the SAPS – General Fannie Masemola and KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, will assess the effectiveness of the SAPS’ Safer Festive Season operational plans put in place to ensure the well-being and safety of all residents and tourists in the country, during the holiday period,” she said.

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Heavy traffic on N1

Meanwhile, the Transport Department said moderate to heavy traffic is still expected on the N1 from Hammanskraal, all the way up to Musina.

According to the department, a significant number of vehicles is also expected at Beitbridge Border Post crossing to Zimbabwe, and the Groblersbrug Border Post to Botswana.

Precaution

The department has urged motorists to take precaution on the roads.

“Impatient motorists at tollgates are warned against driving on the yellow lane or the wrong side of the road, as this causes more congestion, delays and even accidents.”

The department said traffic law enforcement officers are still deployed at major routes and other critical points to manage the flow of traffic and urged motorists to drive with caution, maintain safe following distance, and look out for pedestrians.

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