Pretoria – The safety of South Africans at shopping malls is a priority to the police this festive season, says acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane.
“All South Africans should know that their safety is our priority. We are going to be deploying members of the SAPS and intensifying our operations at malls,” Lieutenant General Phahlane said on Friday, addressing the media during a visit to Kolonnade Shopping Centre, north of Pretoria.
He said the deployment of police officers at various malls throughout the country was aimed at addressing the criminal activities that often happen during the busy festive period when people flock to the country’s shopping centres.
“Our deployments are informed by the assessment that police have made on the ground,” he said.
Police have encouraged the public to work with them during the festive season to ensure the safety of all.
The deployment of police officials at Kolonnade shopping centre and at other malls and strategic areas forms part of the Back-to-Basics approach of the SAPS to improve visibility, enhance policing and curb various crimes which tends to spike during the festive season.
The police leadership’s visits to shopping centres, malls and complexes will be an ongoing campaign leading up to the festive season.
The SAPS will also closely engage with local communities as part of raising awareness and educating the public.
Shopper Mikie Madumise said while she had not had any bad experiences at any mall she welcomed the initiative by the police
“I think this is a good initiative, it means that I can shop for long hours without worrying about my safety,” she said.
Joey Truter said she is usually careful with her belongings in malls.
“I am happy about this programme but I can never say that I feel completely safe because I know of people who have had bad experiences,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
