North West Police Launch Safer Festive Season Operation to Tackle Crime Surge

Karen Scheepers
Oct 20
2 min read

Intensifying the Fight Against Crime

Law enforcement agencies in the North West have officially launched the Safer Festive Season Operation, a coordinated campaign aimed at curbing crime during the upcoming holiday period. The initiative was launched in Kanana Township near Klerksdorp, with provincial leadership pledging to intensify safety and security efforts across all districts.

The campaign, running from October 2025 to January 2026, forms part of a national strategy under the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, which includes the South African Police Service, municipal law enforcement units, and community safety partners.

A Multi-Focused Strategy for Safer Communities

Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Patrick Asaneng outlined a six-point focus plan targeting key areas of concern.

These include:

Combating gender-based violence and protecting vulnerable groups.
Addressing aggravated robbery and repeat violent offenses.
Strengthening border and property security to prevent cross-border crimes.
Disrupting the illicit economy, including illegal trade and counterfeit goods.
Tightening control over firearms, liquor sales, and second-hand goods.
Enforcing municipal by-laws to maintain order in high-risk zones.

Provincial Leadership Calls for Unity

The operation was officially launched by MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, alongside Major General Asaneng, at Matlosana Stadium in Jouberton, Potchefstroom. Morweng reaffirmed the province’s commitment to a zero-tolerance approach against lawlessness and urged residents to work hand-in-hand with authorities.

“This campaign sends a clear message: festive doesn’t mean lawless,” Morweng said. “Our officers are prepared, our communities are mobilised, and our focus is on prevention rather than reaction.”

National Collaboration Under Operation Shanela

The North West’s Safer Festive Season launch is aligned with the national Operation Shanela program, a crime-combating model that prioritises high-visibility policing, road safety enforcement, and targeted raids in hotspot areas. The operation will also involve routine roadblocks, liquor outlet inspections, and special operations against illegal firearms and unlicensed businesses.

Law enforcement agencies have also emphasised community involvement through neighborhood watches and volunteer patrols, reinforcing that sustainable safety requires collaboration between the police and the public.

Towards a Safer Holiday Period

As the festive season approaches, the North West Provincial Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that residents and visitors can celebrate in safety. Police visibility is expected to increase across major routes, entertainment areas, and townships, while joint operations with traffic and municipal officials will continue until the end of January 2026.

The message from provincial authorities is clear: safety is everyone’s responsibility, and cooperation remains key to keeping communities crime-free throughout the holiday season.

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