In a keynote address, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mr Modisaotsile Solomon emphasised the success of community policing initiatives, highlighting their critical role in fostering collaboration between law enforcement and community members.

“These expos are a perfect example of how we can drive transformational change through collaboration,” he stated, noting that the event brought together diverse stakeholders to showcase best practices, share experiences, and raise awareness about crime prevention.

Mr Solomon presented alarming crime statistics from Tatisiding village, indicating a troubling increase in various offenses.

For corporate crimes, which encompass housebreaking, burglary, robbery, stock theft, theft of motor vehicles, and drug-related offenses, police recorded a total of 56 cases in 2022, escalating to 174 in 2023, and 68 so far this year. 

In terms of gender-based violence (GBV), which includes offenses such as rape, defilement, and assault, the statistics were similarly concerning: 49 cases in 2022, 146 in 2023, with 80 cases registered this year to date.

Other common offenses, including theft and fraud, revealed a staggering rise from 173 cases in 2022 to 630 in 2023, and 281 so far in 2024. 

Retired Kgosi Paul Montshwane, Chairperson of District No. 1 Executive Crime Prevention Committee, remarked on the global recognition of Botswana’s community policing initiative, with numerous countries seeking to adopt similar frameworks.

“The success of this approach lies in its emphasis on community engagement and citizen-centered policing, allowing law enforcement to collaborate closely with local communities to identify and combat crime,” he stated.

Kgosi Montshwane advocated for an innovative proposal to integrate community policing into primary school curricula, arguing that such a step would instill civic duty, respect for law, and commitment to public safety among the nation’s youth. “By introducing community policing into our education system, we are laying the groundwork for a future generation that understands the importance of working together to keep our community safe and resilient,” he said.

In his welcome remarks, Kgosi Simon Nkgageng of Tatisiding condemned the recent murder of three children by their  father, describing the tragedy as one that has left an indelible mark on the community.

He also criticized cohabitation, suggesting it contributes to misunderstandings, especially following a partner’s death.

Topics discussed at the expo included fraud, cybercrime, electrical cable theft, and the illicit trafficking of nicotine drugs and psychotropic substances.

The expo took place under the theme “Safety is a Shared Responsibility,” highlighting the collective role of communities in ensuring public safety. Ends