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In a robust response to crime, the Sarah Baartman District has initiated its festive season with a significant law enforcement push, resulting in the arrest or fining of 272 individuals across seven municipalities. This initiative, part of the "Safer Festive Season Operations," kicked off early in November and demonstrated the police's readiness to combat crime during the high-spirited holiday period.
Under the leadership of District Commissioner, Major General Zolani Xawuka, a series of multi-disciplinary operations were carried out, targeting a range of offences from minor traffic violations to serious crimes like murder. These operations not only involved traditional police work but also saw the cooperation of various community stakeholders, embracing the theme of "Combating Crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community Involvement."
The operations covered significant ground across the district:
1. Makhanda (Makana Local Municipality) on 6th November,
2. Jeffreys Bay (Kouga Local Municipality) on 8th November,
3. Joubertina (Koukamma Local Municipality) on 13th November,
4. Nqweba (Sundays River Valley Local Municipality) on 14th November,
5. Graaff Reinet (Dr Beyers Naude Local Municipality) on 15th November,
6. KwaNojoli (Blue Crane Route Local Municipality) on 19th November,
7. Port Alfred (Ndlambe Local Municipality) on 21st November.
Major operations included the raiding of drug dens, critical interventions in hot-spot areas, and compliance checks at local businesses where six spaza shops were fined for ignoring municipal by-laws. Additionally, scrap metals worth over R164,000 were seized during these crackdowns.
The last event of this launch phase took place in Port Alfred and included community engagement activities at the Titi Jonas Multi-purpose Community Centre led by the MEC for Community Safety, Honourable Xolile Nqatha, highlighting the integrated approach of these operations.
Major General Xawuka emphasized the importance of stringent planning and community involvement in his address, stating that their goal is to “squeeze the space for criminals to operate” on the streets of the district. By strengthening bonds with various stakeholders and positioning them as force multipliers, Xawuka highlighted an aggressive stance against crime, ensuring peace and safety for the festive period.
These operations mark just the beginning of a comprehensive festive season strategy aimed at reducing crime and enhancing safety in the Sarah Baartman District, setting a stern tone for law enforcement during one of the busiest times of the year.