Police Day Mesmirise The Public

Pini Bothoko | Monday August 6, 2018 13:02

President Mokgweetsi Masisi started by inspecting the ceremonial parade mounted by members of the BPS, at the event also graced by former presidents, Ian Khama and Festus Mogae, amongst others.

The event was decorated with a colourful parade comprised various units who mesmerised the spectators throughout the event. Even though the event is still struggling to draw huge crowds as compared to Botswana Defence Force (BDF) day, there was all round enjoyment.

Throughout the day, spectators kept the spark as they cheered and laughed their lungs out responding to activities ,a sign that they were enjoying the activities.

After the President’s inspection of the guard of honour, the parade marches followed, and then it was time for the karate display.

The dog and horse displays were amongst the favourites, especially amongst the boys who appeared to love the event with a passion.

The dogs have been trained to march, follow instructions and to sniff out weapons and drugs.

Other activities of the day included tug of war by men and women from the BPS and Special Support Group (SSG), simulation of crime scene and self defence, bicycles relay, polka dance, athletics in which BPS, SSG and police college athletes were competing.

There was also an air display in which the police demonstrated how they respond to emergency arrests, to mention but a few.

For a change this year, BPS introduced motorbikes display that mesmerised spectators. BPS celebrate this day to reflect on their work, share their achievements and what should be done moving forward.

The service dates back  to 1884, the time where 100 men were assembled by the British to form Bechuanaland Mounted Police.

The organisation’s names changed from Bechuanaland Border Police in 1885, Bechuanaland Protectorate Police in 1902 and eventually the Botswana Police Force in 1966 until it was rebranded to the current BPS in 1997.