The SAPS in Limpopo has deployed 74 newly-appointed constables to various districts across the province in an effort to bolster crime prevention efforts during the festive season.
The new cohort of constables has hit the ground running effective from Tuesday in the police’s bid to ensure the safety of residents in the getaway province.
Deputy provincial commissioner responsible for policing in Limpopo, Major General Jan Scheepers advised the newly-minted constables to make correct choices for their future, prioritising their safety and wearing bulletproof vests at all times.
Meanwhile, the provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has welcomed and addressed the cohort of constables.
She emphasised the importance of their role in ensuring the safety and security of all Limpopo residents.
The newly-appointed constables are expected to be proactive in preventing and combating crime, particularly during this holiday season and beyond.
They will also be responsible for protecting residents' property while the residents are on holidays, as well as protecting government infrastructure.
Hadebe urged them to take a firm stance against criminals.
“Do not be generous to the criminals; they are very dangerous, make sure you arrest them for the right reasons. Ensure that you are operationally ready at all times and squeeze the space for criminals,” she said.
The latest deployment is part of the ongoing efforts by SAPS to combat crime and maintain public safety during the festive season.
As part of their earliest successes, while on patrol around Polokwane central business district, the newly-appointed constables have already apprehended five suspects, four men and one woman between the ages of 27 and 33.
The suspects were arrested for possession of dagga and dangerous weapons.
The suspects are expected to appear before Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
Hadebe said police across Limpopo have intensified festive season operations.
“We will continue intensifying our festive season operations through decisive police action as noted with the recent arrests of suspects in Polokwane CBD. These arrests will send a strong warning that criminals will be dealt with decisively in the province,” she said.
Pretoria News
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