Safer festive season operations in full swing, more suspects held

The police in the province have strengthened the fight against criminality. This became evident when a total of 150 suspects were nabbed for various offences during crime intelligence-driven operations held between Friday, 08 and Monday, 11 December 2017.

The suspects were arrested for contact crimes, property related crimes and many other offences at all seven policing clusters.  Of this number, 16 were arrested in Rustenburg, 47 in Brits, in 18 in Mahikeng, 46 in Klerksdorp, while a total of 23 were nabbed in Zeerust, Vryburg and Pudimoe clusters.

Since the launch of the operation in October, the following substantial goods were seized during various operations; 21 motor vehicles and parts, 13 firearms,  114 ammunition, 48 dangerous weapons, 8390005 millilitres of liquor, 10860.187 gram of dagga and as well as various other drugs. 807 Arrests were made as a result of police actions (drug-related-crime, driving under the influence and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition).

The operations also led to issuing of 2445 fines for contravention of liquor, traffic related and other offences including second hand-goods.

The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane appreciated the good work done by members since the beginning of the operation. She said that the police will continue to intensify the work done throughout the year to engender a sense of awareness, public / private partnership and a holistic approach to crime combatting as another phase of Operation Back to Basics: Safer Festive Season 2017/2018 is approached. She said further that seizing of firearms is an indication that the police are firm about the fight against aggravated robberies and other serious crimes.

Members of the community are urged to work together with the police and to take heed and apply the following safety tips:

At your house:

Ø  Make provision for good outside lighting. Remember, outside lights that are on during the day draw the attention of thieves.

Ø  Always check the identity of strangers who visit for business purposes to do deliveries or repairs.

Ø  If you know that you will be away for a longer period, do not leave your house unattended, rather leave another person to take care of it or report your absence to the police so that they can make turns at your place during patrols.

Safety in your car:

 Ø  Your safety is strongly dependent upon you, no matter where you are visiting. Always know where you are going.

Ø  Do not drink and drive, avoid speeding by leaving on time from your departure point.

Ø  Never pick up strangers and do not stop along the road at deserted areas.

Ø  Do not use your cell phone while driving, unless you have a “hands-free” kit.

Ø  Never display your valuables in the car, rather lock them in the boot.

Street Safety:

 Ø  Plan your route beforehand

Ø  In case of pedestrians, do not drink and walk on or along the road.

Ø  If possible, avoid walking alone. Your best defence is having other people nearby.

Ø  If you walk alone, plan your route carefully and stay in well-lit areas as much as possible, especially during the night.

Ø  It is advisable not to carry large sums of money around, rather use your bank cards to do transactions.