Media Statement from North West Media Centre
Corporate Communication
South African Police Service

Potchefstroom- The police in the province are geared to ensure that communities in the province are safe through various operations. 

In order to ensure safety and meeting the demands of policing, operations are underway in various parts of the province including, Mahikeng, Rustenburg and Vryburg.  This is done to ensure that communities are and feel safe considering the festive season activities that are currently taking place.  The police will be out in numbers together with other role-players to curb criminal acts and ensure stability.  

The community is requested to cooperate with law enforcement officials during the operations that will run through the festive month to ensure that people enjoy their holidays. 

The community is urged to take precautionary measures and apply the following safety hints:

• People should avoid carrying a lot of cash during shopping.
• If you intend making a large purchase, consider asking someone to accompany you.     
• Parking areas may pose a security risk as shoppers are preoccupied with loading goods into their cars to notice suspicious persons.
• Avoid placing your wallet or handbag on a car seat or on the roof while loading groceries.
• Ensure the safety and security of your possessions when visiting restrooms.

ATM Security

• Memorise your pin so that you do not have to write it down.
• If you think that the ATM is not working, cancel the transaction immediately and try to use another one.
• Always concentrate and keep your eyes on the screen when you are at an ATM and be cautious of help from strangers.
• Avoid using an ATM if it looks like the card slot, keypad or screen had been tampered with.
• Report any suspicious persons to the police or security officials.

Residents who will be leaving their houses are urged not to leave them unoccupied. This can be done by leaving a relative or any trusted and known person to take care of the house as well as to inform your neighbours about your absence.    

Media enquiries:  Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone:  082 496 9642

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAPoliceService
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sapoliceservice_za/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SAPoliceService
Website: www.saps.gov.za