Eastern Cape launches festive season crime prevention drive

The Eastern Cape government has started its preparations for a safer festive season, with new police resources and a call for residents to help fight crime, according to SAnews.

MEC Xolile Nqatha, who is responsible for transport and community safety, opened the province’s safety month and festive season campaign at Rotary Stadium in Ngangelizwe, in the OR Tambo District. The aim is to improve police visibility, step up law enforcement operations and get communities more involved in crime prevention.

New vehicles and equipment

Nqatha and senior police leaders unveiled new police vehicles and other operational equipment at the event. SAnews reported that the extra resources are expected to improve the police’s capacity and readiness to respond across the province.

Officials say the festive period puts extra pressure on policing because more people travel and more gatherings take place. Nqatha told residents that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is ready to carry out its festive season safety plan.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola attended, as did Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, the provincial police commissioner. Also present were OR Tambo District executive mayor Mesuli Ngqondwana, King Sabata Dalindyebo councillors, AmaMpondo King Ndlovuyezwe Ndamase, traditional leaders, members of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, government officials and civil society groups.

Focus on gender-based violence

Nqatha said the campaign puts gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) at the heart of the province’s safety agenda, alongside regular crime prevention. He and Ngqondwana handed certificates of recognition to people and organisations that have helped raise awareness, supported victims or run projects to end GBVF.

The event also highlighted the provincial community safety department’s work in mobilising communities, empowering victims, overseeing the police and building partnerships.

What this means for residents

The campaign runs under the isiXhosa theme "Musa ukuthula kusonakala", which means do not stay silent when things go wrong. Residents are encouraged to:

• report criminal activity to the authorities;
• support victims of crime;
• work with the police and community safety structures.

The MEC said the provincial government wants all residents to play an active role in preventing crime and keeping the festive season peaceful. Intensified operations, including visible policing and law enforcement, begin with this launch, so people in the province should expect a stronger police presence in the coming weeks.

This story is based on reporting by SAnews.