Berea, Jan. 13 — In an effort to curb rising crime rates during the festive season, the Mapoteng Police Station deployed officers to Ha Nkoebe in the Kolojane area for a two-week operation aimed at increasing visibility and maintaining law and order.
Senior Inspector Relebohile Mahula, the Station Commander, stated that police were actively patrolling the village and swiftly responding to reports of criminal activity. Their visible presence played a crucial role in deterring potential offenders and restoring a sense of safety in the area.
“The number of sexual assault cases decreased drastically during this period, which is a clear sign that the presence of law enforcement had a positive effect,” said Mahula.
However, he expressed concern over increase in murder cases compared to the previous year. “Sadly, most of these incidents stem from community members taking the law into their own hands rather than following legal channels,” he added.
Mahula went on to thank his colleagues and members of the local Crime Prevention Committee (CPC) for their dedication and teamwork during the operation. Their combined efforts were key in creating a safer environment over the festive period.
He concluded by appealing to the public to avoid acts of vigilantism and instead report suspected criminals to the police.
“Let the law take its course, violence only creates more loss and fear within our communities,” he said.
The police have promised to continue similar operations in high-risk areas in the future as part of their crime prevention strategy.
Ends/MK/tl
