17 Mar 2026

The deployment of the 23 Special Support Group (SSG) unit in Mahalapye symbolised the strength of national institutions and a collective commitment to safeguarding communities.

This was said by Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa at the launch of a contingent of 23 SSG officers in Mahalapye on Monday.

Mr Mohwasa said their deployment was strategic, given the village’s location along the North-South corridor, which made it critical for policing operations.

He said they would also assist in responding to specialised incidents and natural disasters when necessary, stressing that their presence was meant to enhance security and not intimidate the community.

“Our people, including children, must see the police as protectors and partners in building safe communities,” he said.

He noted that the SSG already maintained a presence in Palapye, Jwaneng and Orapa, while base camps had also been set up along borders to combat crimes such as smuggling, stock theft, illegal migration and wildlife poaching, particularly in sensitive areas like the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

While the main SSG base remained in Gaborone, Minister Mohwasa said plans were underway to establish a fully-fledged camp in Francistown to strengthen operations in the northern region.

He further assured the nation that despite current financial and cash flow challenges, government remained steadfast in its commitment to maintaining peace, stability and national security.

He emphasised that public security was central to national development, noting that safety and stability were critical in building investor confidence and creating an environment where businesses and opportunities could thrive.

He said as a ministry responsible for governance, peace and security, they remained fully committed to ensuring that the safety of people continued to receive the attention it deserved.

Mr Mohwasa highlighted that government would continue investing in strengthening law enforcement capabilities, including enhancing partnerships within the Botswana Police Service and adopting modern technologies to effectively combat organised crime, criminal syndicates and emerging cross-border threats.

He further underscored the link between security and economic growth, saying government would continue engaging stakeholders to develop innovative programmes aimed at reviving, transforming and diversifying the economy to create sustainable jobs.

For her part, Botswana Police Commissioner Dinah Marathe expressed appreciation to the Mahalapye community for its collaboration in advancing community policing efforts, adding that the deployment of the 23 officers would strengthen operations and improve response to crime.

“These officers are trained and disciplined to advance community policing principles and promote public security throughout Mahalapye and its environs,” she said.

Commissioner Marathe further acknowledged government for providing the necessary resources to support the strategic deployment. ENDS