Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, 24 December 2024 - In a proactive step to ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the festive season, KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, and Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, spearheaded a festive season safety awareness campaign on Tuesday.

The campaign targeted key areas across the province, focusing on promoting heightened security measures and fostering community engagement during this busy time of year.

Safety Awareness at Shopping Malls

As part of the initiative, the Premier and the Provincial Commissioner visited bustling shopping malls, a hotspot for holiday activity. They emphasised the importance of vigilance and urged the public to prioritise safety while shopping and socialising.

“The festive season is a time of joy and celebration, but we must also remain cautious. Criminals often exploit busy periods, and it is vital that we work together to ensure safety in our communities,” Premier Ntuli said.

Engaging with the Community

During the campaign, Premier Ntuli and Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi took time to interact directly with holidaymakers, community members, commuters, and businesspeople. These engagements provided an opportunity to raise awareness about crime prevention strategies and to hear concerns from the public.

“We are committed to making KwaZulu-Natal a safer place for everyone. These engagements allow us to connect with the people we serve and build a culture of trust and cooperation,” said Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi.

Heightened Festive Season Security Measures

The campaign aligns with the province’s broader strategy to combat crime during the festive season, a period often marked by an increase in criminal activity. The Premier assured residents and visitors that law enforcement agencies are on high alert, working tirelessly to safeguard communities.

“This province will not be a playground for criminals,” Ntuli declared. “We are intensifying our fight against crime and ensuring that every resident and visitor can enjoy the festive season in peace.”

Call for Community Cooperation

Both the Premier and the Police Commissioner urged the public to play an active role in crime prevention by reporting suspicious activity and adhering to safety guidelines.

“This is a collective effort. By working together, we can make KwaZulu-Natal a safe haven for all,” said the Premier.

A Safer KwaZulu-Natal for All

The festive season safety awareness campaign is part of KwaZulu-Natal’s commitment to creating a secure and welcoming environment for everyone, ensuring that the holiday season remains a time of joy and celebration.

ENDS