KNYSNA NEWS - The Knysna police will embark on a number of crime prevention operations during the Pick ’n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival.
Sergeant Chris Spies corporate communication officer for the Knysna police said on Tuesday, June 28, said: "These operations will be conducted in conjunction with the Knysna municipal law enforcement and traffic services, Knysna provincial traffic, local security companies and neighbourhood watch volunteers. These operations aim to ensure high levels of safety throughout the 10-day winter festival."
Spies explained that the operations will include visits to liquor outlets, foot patrols, roadblocks, vehicle check points and search operations.
"A special focus will also be placed on the Knysna lagoon and the N2 highway with observations as well as patrols. Crime hotspots has already been identified and increased patrols will be conducted in these areas.
"Motorist and pedestrian safety remains key to our operational plan. We want to discourage people from drinking whilst driving motor vehicles. Drivers that plan to use liquor are advised to make alternative transport arrangements.
The Knysna police are committed to reduce the crime of driving motor vehicle whilst under the influence of liquor.
"No one is trying to stop anyone from having a good time. It is just important to be responsible when consuming liquor. If you are stopped at a roadblock, and if it is determined that you have consumed more than the legal limit of alcohol that you may legally consume while driving, you will be arrested and charged."
According to Spies theft out of motor vehicle remains one of the main challenges during this festive period. It is therefore of utmost importance that visitors to Knysna and the public assist the police to prevent these incidents.
Theft from motor vehicles
"Analysis of the crime indicated that vehicles parked with valuables in sight of the public were targeted and valuables were stolen. The stolen items included clothing, laptops, cameras, cash, cellular phones and smaller items.
"Bicycles were also removed from some vehicles in previous years. It is therefore important that cyclers take good care of their bicycles, especially when vehicles are parked. Pamphlets will also be distributed in our efforts to sensitive vehicle owners."
• Avoid displaying valuables where criminals can see them.
• Walk in well-lit busy streets and in a group, if possible.
• Keep your cellular phone away from the public eye.
• Avoid parking your motor vehicle where there are no security officers guarding other cars.
• Make sure that all the doors and windows are properly locked when you park your car.
• Valuable items like a laptop and camera should be put in the boot of your car.
• Lock your valuables in the cars boot before departure.
• At night, park in well-lit areas.
• Do not leave your goods/valuable items visible in the car.
• Remove detachable radios and the radio’s face when getting out of the car.
• Parking lots with a parking attendant or supervision/ someone patrolling are best, otherwise try to park in locations that are well lit and or well-populated and not crowded by bushes or buildings where offenders might hide.
• Do not walk alone at night.
• Do not leave a party or social event with someone you do not know or have just met.
The station commander of the Knysna police, Colonel Atwell Metu, warned:"A zero tolerance approach will continue throughout the festive period.
The public are encouraged to adhere to orders from law enforcers and to enjoy themselves within the perimeters of the law. All the planned operations will assist to create a safer festival."
ARTICLE: CHRISTO VERMAAK, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD JOURNALIST
'We bring you the latest Knysna, Garden Route news'
