KNYSNA NEWS - Ongoing safer Festive Season operations already resulted in the arrest of 233 suspects for various offences in Knysna since 1 December 2017. 

These operations are designed to increase the safety of al inhabitants, visitors and holiday makers throughout the festive season without the threat of fear or threat of attack. 

Operational activities include roadblocks, stop and search operations, visits to liquor outlets, foot-and-beach patrols, enhanced visibility through vehicle patrols, regular visits to shopping centres and the detection of wanted suspects.

1. Police initiated actions, specifically aimed at eradicating drugs and the abuse thereof, led to the arrest of 55 suspects in connection with drug related offences which varies from dealing in drugs to the illegal possession of drugs. (Small amounts of drugs such as Tik, Mandrax and dagga were confiscated during this period.)
2. 3 suspects were arrested for murder, 7 for sexual related offences such as Rape, 32 for assault with the intention to commit grievous bodily harm, 6 for robbery and 3 for housebreaking and theft.
3. Tracing operations by the detectives led to the arrest of 9 more suspects against whom warrants of arrest were issued.
4. Other arrests include outstanding warrants of arrest, drunk and disorderly, shoplifting and possession of stolen property.

Road Safety
The safety of road users and especially pedestrian safety remain a concern to authorities. 

We shall therefor intensify roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints as we approach this Christmas weekend. 

We urge all road users and pedestrians alike, to obey the rules of the road and to adhere to road signage. 

Drunken driving will not be tolerated. 

The South African Police Service, jointly with other law enforcement agencies, remain committed to reduce road fatalities and moving violations.

So far 16 suspects were arrested for driving whilst under the influence of liquor.

Safety Tips
Theft out of motor vehicle and burglaries usually increase during the festive period and the public should take note of the following safety tips:

• 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.

All above mentioned successes can be attributed to the sound cooperation between Knysna SAPS and other stakeholders which include Provincial Traffic, Knysna Municipal Law Enforcement, local security companies and neighbourhood watch structures and volunteers.

The Station Commander of the Knysna police, Colonel Atwell Metu reiterated SAPS’s stance of a zero tolerance approach that will be enforced throughout the festive period. 

“It is common knowledge that the festive season is a time when most people take time off from work to relax and spend time with their families. 

"Unfortunately, it is also during this period that opportunistic criminals prey on unsuspecting victims to commit crime. 

"We will also ensure that there will be heightened police visibility in areas where large numbers of our communities gather during the holidays such as shopping centres and malls, the beaches and other tourist destinations.” 

He also urged the communities to be responsible during this time and to respect the law and the Law enforcement Authorities.

Information Provided by Sergeant Chris Spies, Communication Official, Knysna SAPS.

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