02 Nov 2021

Public input has been described as critical to making the forthcoming festive season more peaceful and safe.

   Launching “60 Days of Action on Crime and Road Safety” campaign in Tutume on Monday, Police Commissioner Mr Keabetswe Makgophe therefore appealed for more support from the public..

Mr Makgophe noted that the country had lately been experiencing a spate of armed robberies targeting businesses and cash in transit vehicles mainly in Gaborone.

The robberies were committed by collusion between local and cross-border criminals, some of them well known locally, he said.

Mr Makgophe said it was regrettable that police officers responding to some of the reports had faced armed resistance from the robbers, an indication of their determination.

“The level of impudence displayed by these robbers poses a serious danger to not only the business owners but also the public at large even the police themselves,” he said.

 Mr Makgophe said police ability to effectively confront armed criminals was impeded by the presence of members of the public who crowded crime scenes.

He appealed to Batswana to always keep a safe distance from crime or accident scenes in order to avoid obstructing the police or suffering injuries or loss of life.

The police commissioner also urged the public to remain vigilant and share any information that could lead to the arrest of criminals. 

He further cautioned against illegal possession and use of firearms.

Mr Makgophe vowed that police would not relent in efforts to guarantee the safety and security of Batswana and their property at all times.

About the November 1-December 31 campaign, themed ‘safety and security amid the COVID-19 pandemic’, he said its aim was to ensure Batswana and visitors enjoyed peace and tranquility during the festive season.

He said police were committed to vigorously embark on crime prevention and road safety measures as well as intensified law enforcement activities. Ends