24/12/2025
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape is intensifying its operational readiness to ensure a safe and secure festive season for all residents and visitors during the Christmas weekend.
The Key Focus Areas for the Christmas weekend is as follows:
1. High-Visibility Patrols: Increased vehicle, foot, and horseback patrols will be conducted in town centres, shopping malls, beaches, parks, and entertainment hubs.
2. Enhanced Highway Patrols: The SAPS, in collaboration with traffic authorities, will maintain a strong presence on major roads such as the N2, R61, N6 and R72. Roadblocks will target speeding, drunk driving, unroadworthy vehicles, and the transportation of illegal goods.
3. Liquor Outlet Compliance: Operations will focus on enforcing compliance at shebeens and taverns, particularly regarding trading hours and underage drinking, to mitigate alcohol-related violence and accidents.
4. Crime Prevention Operations: Proactive operations targeting contact crimes such as robbery, burglary, assault, and gender-based violence will be prioritised.
5. Crowd Management: Police will be deployed at large public gatherings and events to ensure orderly conduct and public safety.
The SAPS Eastern Cape calls on the community to be partners in safety:
- On the Roads: Plan your trips, do not drink and drive, wear seatbelts, and adhere to speed limits.
- At Home: Secure your property, inform neighbours if you are travelling, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
- In Public: Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and keep children under close supervision.
- Celebrate Responsibly: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and resolve conflicts peacefully.
https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/msspeechdetail.php?nid=65950
