14 Nov 2025

President Advocate Duma Boko has praised law enforcement officers for their dedication under challenging conditions.

He said this in Mogoditshane on November 14 during the launch of Operation Pabalesego II, a joint initiative by the Botswana Police Service and Botswana Defence Force to enhance national safety and security, with support from other law enforcement agencies.

“Your commitment is central to maintaining safety and order across Botswana,” he said.

He further called on elders to guide youth away from harmful influences and stressed the importance of parental vigilance, especially in monitoring children’s movements and online activity.

The President further issued a warning against gender-based violence (GBV), describing it as a serious threat to families and communities.

“I appeal to the public to promote respect, empathy, and non-violence in all relationships, particularly romantic ones,” he said.

Highlighting the broader security situation, Commissioner of Police Dinah Marathe said Botswana’s overall crime remained manageable, with targeted offences decreasing by 5 per cent between January and September compared to the same period last year.

However, she noted worrying trends, saying motor vehicle theft was up by 15 per cent while defilement of children under 18 rose by 11 per cent and murder cases by 3 per cent, largely linked to violent disputes involving sharp instruments.

Commissioner Marathe also stated that GBV and drug abuse continued to grow as a national concern.

“To this end, we are in the process of introducing a one-stop saving centre for GBV victims, as well as rolling out  our child-friendly centres to other strategic areas across our policing jurisdiction in partnership with national and international cooperating partners,” she said. ENDS