BPS Launches Missing Persons Unit Amid Rise in Cybercrime and Violent Attacks
24 May 2025
The Botswana Police Service (BPS) has established a dedicated Missing Persons Unit in a bid to improve investigations into disappearances and enhance detection efforts through international collaboration.
Police Commissioner Dinah Marathe revealed the development today during her address at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), where she called for the creation of a national missing persons database aligned with Interpol.
Marathe said while overall violent crimes had dropped by 10.6%, the severity of incidents has increased, sparking fear in communities and prompting a shift in policing strategies.
“People are living in fear not because crime is high, but because it is more brutal,” she noted.
Another growing area of concern she said was cybercrime, which has decreased by 18.3%.
Marathe said the BPS was seeing a rise in online scams, impersonations, and social media-related offenses.
She warned that without proper intervention, cybercrime could spiral into a serious threat to national stability.
“We urgently need a national cybersecurity platform powered by artificial intelligence,” she said, adding that while the technology was costly potentially requiring billions
it was essential in safeguarding Botswana’s digital space.
The Commissioner further outlined efforts to improve police services, including new police stations in Malepolole and plans to absorb special constables into permanent roles.
Internally, she acknowledged the heavy toll on officers working under pressure and with limited resources, calling for improved psychological support systems.
She also raised concerns about youth unemployment, rising suicide rates, and drug trafficking, urging a national response that involves both local and international partners.
Despite the challenges, Marathe affirmed the BPS’s commitment to building a safer, more inclusive society aligned with the nation’s transformative vision. ENDS
Source : BOPA
Author : Bakang Wren
Location : Gaborone
Event : PAC Meeting
Date : 24 May 2025
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