Police geared up for Independence holidays
Bonte Seepi | Tuesday September 29, 2015 11:13
In an interview with Mmegi, Officer Commanding No.16 District, Superintendent Olefile Badisa said the police are well equipped for the holidays that are starting tomorrow. Badisa said they have already started their patrols and roadblocks.
“We have already started our patrols and roadblocks which shall come to an end after the holidays.
Last year during the same time, we recorded some cases of house breaking. This is usually a concern because this is the time when many people travel to their respective home villages,” said Badisa, adding that houses which are often targeted are those of the working group.
However, Badisa urged workers especially government employees, to always leave someone in their homes when they go away to avoid house breaking and theft. He advised drivers to avoid drinking and driving, saying it is one of the major causes of road accidents especially amoung the youth.
“Don’t be over excited, act responsibly and avoid careless overtaking and speeding. Know that there are other road users whom you share the road with,” he further advised.
At Serowe Police Station, acting station commander, Assistant Superintendent Molefhe Molefhe told Mmegi that as from Monday, they have mounted roadblocks where they will be controlling movement of motor vehicles and checking their roadworthiness. Molefhe said they will be in Serowe and its environs.
“As usual, we are always well prepared for holidays like these ones. We shall be everywhere 24 hours until Sunday when we shall be going back to our normal services,” said Molefhe.
Molefhe also asked drivers to cooperate with the police over the holidays, adding that usually during such holidays, most people drive without licences while some drive whilst drunk. He added that stealing at drinking holes, is another issue of concern.
The police boss also encouraged Batswana to know their neighbours and live well with them so that even when they are away, their neighbours can look after their homes.
He also urged people to take care of their cars and avoid leaving valuables like laptops and cellphones inside, as this can attract robbers.
Meanwhile, Machaneng police assistant station commander, Assistant Superintendent Kebueng Hulela, also said the police will be ready for anything that might come up during the holidays. He said during the same period last year, they recorded a low number of crime as well as road accidents, mainly due to people’s cooperation with the police.
He said their main concern was that of people hiring illegal immigrants, adding that this should be avoided, as these are the very same people who will rob them if given a chance. He also urged motor vehicle drivers to always carry their licences whenever they travel to avoid inconvenience.
“Avoid accommodating and hiring people who have no legal documents because those people end up stealing from your properties. Drivers should also make sure that they always have their licences and everybody should put on their seat belts for protection during times of accidents,” advised Hulela.