The 31st of December is traditionally a time when many people celebrate with loved ones, families and friends as the year comes to an end and communities prepare to enter a new year with new resolutions. However, police have cautioned that irresponsible behaviour, particularly the abuse of alcohol, often leads to serious consequences.

'Alcohol abuse is a leading cause of reported domestic violence cases.'

Provincial police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli said alcohol abuse has been identified as a major contributing factor to most domestic violence cases reported in and around the Free State.

The police have also issued a strong warning regarding the use of fireworks. Fireworks may not be sold to children under the age of 16 and, when purchased, must be used under adult supervision. This follows incidents where children have lost fingers, hands and even eyes due to negligence by parents or guardians.

Fireworks warning: ‘Children have lost fingers, hands and even eyes due to negligence’

All fireworks traders are required to have a valid explosives traders permit issued by the police, which must be clearly displayed on their premises. Parents are further urged not to buy fireworks from street vendors, as these are often illegal and not regulated in terms of the Explosives Act 26 of 1956.

Kareli said police visibility will be heightened throughout the festive period. Patrols have been intensified at areas where large numbers of people are expected to gather. Multi-disciplinary operations and strategic roadblocks are also being conducted across the province to curb the transportation of stolen goods, illicit drugs and illegal cigarettes. Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to their nearest police station.

Police appeal to women to organise trusted transport 

The police also issued a safety appeal specifically to women who will be out late during New Year’s celebrations.

“We also urge females or ladies to organise a trusted transport that will take them home late at night. This is to curb rapes, murders and assaults that happen while the victim is on her way from the tavern to home. Speak to a trusted friend to collect you late at night and safely take you home and avoid trying to walk alone at night.”

‘Initiation school disputes to be reported to Cogta, not police’

In addition, Kareli warned parents against reporting their children as missing when they are aware that the child is attending an initiation school. He said such cases are often reported due to disputes over terms with initiation school owners. These matters, he explained, should rather be referred to a relevant committee under the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) for mediation, instead of opening missing persons cases and unnecessarily using police resources.

'Farmers to properly brand their livestock to prevent theft'

Livestock owners were also reminded to take precautionary measures to prevent stock theft. Kareli urged owners to ensure their animals are properly branded and that they have the necessary documentation to prove ownership. This, he said, assists greatly when recovered livestock needs to be returned to its rightful owner. Farmers are also encouraged to regularly inspect their camps and conduct frequent stock counts for early detection of theft.

The Free State Police have appealed to all residents to work together with law enforcement to ensure a safe, peaceful and responsible transition into the New Year.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi  cvdw