Tag Archives: The acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner

Motorists urged to buckle-up ahead of Easter Holiday

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Picture: Law enforcement agencies during the launch of Easter Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign in Hopetown/Supplied   

By BAKANG MOKOTO

1April 2026 – The acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Thabo Mphuthi together with the Pixley Ka Seme District Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, joined the Northern Cape MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Limakatso Koloi at the launch of the 2026 Easter Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign in Hopetown, in Pixley Ka Seme District on 31 March 2026.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said a multi-disciplinary parade was conducted and addressed by Koloi. Shemane said the representatives from the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Traffic Officials, SAPS, Thembelihle Local Municipality and various Taxi Associations, Entities and Stakeholders, attended the official programme at the Steynville Primary School in Hopetown prior to the roadblock.

“The purpose of the event was outlined by Rodney Pieterse, the Head of Department for Transport, Safety and Liaison. Pieterse emphasised the theme of the launch: “Road Safety Begins With Me”.

Mphuthi informed participants and stakeholders that SAPS is aware that the easter period is usually coupled with road accidents and carnage. She further said law enforcement agencies will be out in full force during these peak times when there is an increase in the volume of traffic on the roads, prioritising road safety.

“The SAPS will intensify and strengthen police visibility that is already existing. This is ongoing efforts during the Easter holidays and beyond.

“SAPS urge all road users to plan their journeys responsibly, avoid drinking and driving, obey traffic laws, and prioritize safety,” said Mphuthi.

She said in line with the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, SAPS will maintain a zero-tolerance approach to lawlessness on the roads. Mphuthi added that SAPS encourages all road users to take personal responsibility for their safety, buckle up and avoid dangerous overtaking.

“If we reflect on the theme for the 2026 Easter Season Road Safety Campaign: “Road Safety Begins With Me”, it places emphasis on personal accountability for road safety, aiming to reduce fatalities by encouraging every driver, passenger and pedestrian to take responsibility for themselves.

“The Safer Easter Holidays operation, known as Operation Paseka is running parallel to Operation Shanela 2 and it commenced on 15 March 2026 until 15 April 2026, focusing on the safety and security of all citizens including those utilizing our roads,” she said.

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SAPS ready to serve and protect residents during Easter Holidays

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Picture: The SAPS are ready to protect residents

By REGINALD KANYANE

15 April 2025- The acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga, has assured residents and visitors that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is fully prepared to protect and serve during the upcoming Easter holiday. Ngubelanga said a zero-tolerance approach will be adopted towards all forms of criminal activity across the province.

He further said the law enforcement operations will be bolstered by Community Police Structures, police reservists, and other relevant stakeholders. Ngubelanga added that priority will be given to combating serious crimes such as contact crimes, residential and business robberies, damage or tampering of essential infrastructure, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), drug and alcohol-related offences, and promoting road safety.

“Large public events will be closely monitored to ensure effective crowd management and the maintenance of public order. Alcohol and substance abuse will not be tolerated, given their role in contributing to violent and serious crimes.

“We also encourage all road users—motorists and pedestrians alike—to adhere to road safety practices to reduce fatalities and serious accidents,” he said.

Ngubelanga said roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints will be strategically implemented to deter and detect offenses such as driving under the influence. He said specialized units, including the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, will be deployed to monitor water bodies such as dams and rivers, particularly during the rainy season.

“Residents and tourists are urged to exercise caution around water and avoid unnecessary risks during adverse weather conditions. Parents are reminded to be vigilant and aware of their children’s whereabouts at all times.

“Homeowners should take the necessary precautions to secure their property when traveling, and shoppers are advised to remain alert in crowded areas,” said Ngubelanga.

He said the public is encouraged to avoid carrying large amounts of cash, use debit or credit cards where possible and stay aware of their surroundings while shopping. Ngubelanga also extended his appreciation to community members for their continued support and collaboration in providing valuable information that leads to the arrest of criminals.

“We call on the public to remain the eyes and ears of the police and to report any suspicious activity to SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the My SAPS mobile application. All reports will be treated with the utmost confidentiality,” he said.

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