Efforts to combat crime increased

Police in the Free State have significantly intensified their efforts to combat the typical increase in criminal activity associated with the festive season. This period often sees an increase in crime as people become distracted, homes are left vacant, and shoppers carry more cash or new valuables.

As part of the national mandate, the Free State police is executing dedicated campaigns focusing on high-risk areas through Operation Shanela and Festive Season Operations. These campaigns include high-visibility patrols, integrated roadblocks, and robust enforcement activities targeting:

Wanted suspects

Serious and violent crimes which include murder, rape, car hijackings, and robberies.

Liquor Act enforcement

This extends to illegal firearms and drug possession.

Operation Basadi initiatives continue with a focus on women’s safety, community engagement, and awareness campaigns addressing gender-based violence (GBV) and substance abuse.

As part of their essential safety guidelines, the police urges residents and travellers to practise extreme vigilance and implement the following safety measures:

Home safety

■ Ensure all doors and windows are properly locked before leaving.

■ Do not post travel plans on social media or leave voicemail messages indicating absence.

■ Ask a trusted neighbour or neighbourhood watch member to monitor your property and open or close curtains occasionally.

■ Trim trees and shrubs that could provide hiding places for criminals.

■ Discard boxes from expensive gifts (such as televisions or electronics) carefully and discreetly to avoid advertising new valuables.

Shopping and fraud prevention

■ Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use alternative banking methods.

■ Have your card ready, shield the keypad when entering your PIN, and never accept help from strangers.

■ If you notice suspicious individuals, do not proceed with transactions.

■ At shopping centres, keep your handbag close to your body or wallet in a front pocket.

■ Park in well-lit areas and immediately lock shopping bags in the boot.

■ To prevent online scams, use reputable sites and be cautious of deals that seem “too good to be true.”

■ Never share banking details.

Stokvel safety

Members of stokvels are advised to use bank transfers to distribute money to members and require two or more signatories for withdrawals.

Vehicle and road safety

■ Ensure your car is roadworthy.

■ Carry a spare wheel and emergency kit.

■ Do not drink and drive.

■ Lock doors and keep windows closed, especially at traffic lights.

■ Keep valuables out of sight (ideally in the boot).

■ Pedestrians should not walk on highways or busy roads and must avoid reckless crossing.

■ Use designated pedestrian bridges to cross busy roads safely.

Safety at licensed premises

■ Never leave drinks or food unattended

■ Always have a designated driver or use a reliable ride-sharing service

■ A child can drown in as little as 30 seconds and often in only a few centimetres of water (4cm). Parents must always supervise children and never allow them to play near standing water, as accidents can occur that may lead to drowning.

The Free State police wishes all residents and visitors a safe and peaceful festive season and encourages all to work closely with police to ensure a crime-free period.

If you see something, call the police via Crime Stop at 0860 010 111. For emergencies dial 112 or use the My SAPS app for anonymous tip-offs.