Prayers offered on N6 for safer roads during the festive season

BLOEMFONTEIN – A prayer session led by Brigadier Mohiti Seretsi, District Commissioner of the Xhariep, was held on the N6 near Smithfield.

The police in Smithfield joined forces with local faith-based organisations in a powerful and heartfelt prayer session along the busy N6. The gathering aimed to seek divine intervention and promote road safety, peace and crime prevention as communities across the country enter the festive season.

The festive period is traditionally characterised by high traffic volumes, increased social activities, and unfortunately, a rise in road accidents and crime.

Recognising these risks, the police in Smithfield mobilised church leaders, pastors, congregants, community members and different stakeholder structures to raise awareness and encourage responsible behaviour from motorists, pedestrians, and residents of the area.

Station management highlighted the importance of working together as one community. Officers expressed their appreciation to the religious fraternity for standing in solidarity with the police and supporting the fight against crime, drunk driving, reckless behaviour, gender-based violence, and other social issues that often spike during this period.

Motorists passing along the N6 also received awareness pamphlets and road safety messages. Police officers reminded travellers to obey traffic laws, avoid alcohol and speeding, ensure roadworthiness of vehicles, and prioritise the safety of passengers.

This joint prayer gathering demonstrated that safety is not only the responsibility of the police, but the collective duty of every community member.

As the festive season unfolded, the police call upon all road users and residents to prioritise safety, report suspicious activities and cooperate fully with law enforcement. With faith, vigilance and collaboration, Smithfield strives to ensure that every family will enter the New Year peacefully and without tragedy.

The prayer also served as a build-up to the Provincial Imbizo Closing of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children which will be led by the Provincial Commissioner Lt. General Baile Motswenyane on Wednesday, 10 December 2025 at Smithfield Primary School.