Holiday crime spike avoidable

The police have warned that the festive season is a time when many people fall victim to crimes, but that most incidents can be avoided if people pay close attention to their surroundings and take active precautions.

Police deputy inspector general for operations, major general Elias Mutota, said this in his festive season and crime prevention message.

“For many people, the festive season holidays brings an increase in travelling, shopping and socialising; and therefore appears to be a peak period where crime rates escalate,” he said.

Mutota said that the police together with other stakeholders will carry out robust police operations during the festive season.

Spike in crime

He explained these operational interventions are aimed at engaging the community such as business sectors, churches, schools, and community group’s to strengthen and intensify the fight against crime.

Mutota said that some prevalent crime risks during this period include housebreaking and theft, theft out of motor vehicle, ATM and online fraud, theft under false pretence, cell phone and handbag snatching, robbery and shoplifting.

“These acts of violence do not only pose a threat to the victims, but it is also disturbing to us as police.”

Eyes open

He said citizens must protect their properties, be vigilant and always scan the environment around them in whatever they do, especially when withdrawing huge amounts of cash from banks.

“When going away ask a trusted neighbour, relative or friend to check on your property daily while you are away. Hand in firearms and ammunition at the local police station for safe keeping.”

Mutota added that people should also double check that all the windows and doors of their vehicles are closed and locked when parking.

“The seriousness of continued acts of violence against rural communities as well as the high level of stock theft requires joint efforts by farmers, rural communities, and the police to combat these acts of evil perpetrated against our people”.

Alert the police

He said that should something out of the ordinary or suspicious be observed, immediately report it to the nearest police station or road traffic checkpoint.

"Police visibility will be the order of the day during the festive season and beyond. To criminals and would-be criminals, be warned that the police will not tolerate criminal behaviour towards the public, and we are determined to bring the fight to your doorsteps."

Mutota reaffirmed the force’s unwavering commitment to provide safety and security to members of the public during the holiday season and beyond.

He also appealed to all road users to adhere to traffic rules and regulations by ensuring that their vehicles are roadworthy, the allowed speed limit and a safe following distance are maintained.

Road users were reminded to refrain from drinking alcohol or using any intoxicating substances while driving, not overtaking in blind spots, and resting enough before their journey.