During his launch of the 2021 festive season safety operations, Saul warned that law enforcement agencies, including the police, will focus on combatting aggravated robberies, murder and rape, amongst other crimes. 

He has also promised that law enforcement agencies would turn their focus to prevent crimes against vulnerable groups such as women, children and the LGBT community, amongst other vulnerable groups.

Saul says they welcome the launch of the Eyes and Ears initiative during this period, where the police have entered into a partnership with Business Against Crime as well as the Private Security Industry to align resources to keep communities safe.

“High police visibility will therefore be a central aspect to policing during this festive season period. The South African Police Services (SAPS) has given the assurance that they have the necessary resources, and most importantly that they have the commitment of all the police officers to ensure that crime is fought wherever it rears its ugly head. 

"We urge parents and communities to be vigilant and assist unsuspecting young people who fall prey to the dark, deep underworld of drugs and crime,” he adds. 

Saul further adds that as a government they have invested a lot of resources and finances on public awareness campaigns to protect young people from being used in this manner. These efforts, however, also require action from law enforcement to come on board and dispense their mandate without fear or favour.

OFM News