Police visibility increased for a safer Oyster fest
The Knysna SAPS, supported by other law enforcement agencies, stakeholders as well as neighbourhood watch volunteers, has increased police visibility and will increase operations to ensure a safer Pick ’n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival.
“This increased visibility and operations aims to ensure high levels of safety throughout the 10-day winter festival period,” said police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies.
“It includes visits to liquor outlets, foot patrols, roadblocks, vehicle check points and search operations,” said Spies who added crime hotspots have already been identified and increased patrols will be conducted in these areas.
The acting station commander of the Knysna police, Lieutenant Colonel Siddique Khan, said, “A zero tolerance approach will be maintained throughout the festive period. The public are encouraged to adhere to orders from law enforcers and to enjoy themselves within the perimeters of the law. We call on visitors and the public to play their role in ensuring their own safety during the festival. This can be done by being vigilant, abiding by the laws of the country and the rules of the road and reporting incidents of crime to the authorities.”
Theft out of motor vehicle remains one of the main challenges during this festive period. It is therefore of utmost importance that visitors to Knysna and the public assist the police to prevent these incidents. Analysis of the crime indicated that vehicles parked with valuables in sight of the public were targeted and valuables were stolen during previous years.
Perpetrators also targeted vehicles parked with bicycles on it or attached to these vehicles. It is therefore important that cyclists take good care of their bicycles, especially when vehicles are parked.
“Motorist and pedestrian safety remains key to our operational plan. We want to discourage people from drinking whilst driving motor vehicles. Law enforcement agencies are committed to reduce incidents of driving motor vehicle whilst under the influence of liquor. Drivers that plan to use liquor are advised to make alternative transport arrangements.
“As the police have noted over previous festivals, criminals seek to prey on people while they are relaxed and have dropped their guard. Whilst visitors and communities enjoy themselves, they should still be aware of their surroundings and take steps to secure their loved ones and property. Law enforcement and departments of the justice, crime prevention and security cluster, supported by stakeholders, will be playing our part, in terms of the various mandates,” said Spies.
The public should take note of the following safety hints throughout the festival:
Avoid displaying valuables where criminals can see them.
Walk in well-lit busy streets and in a group, if possible.
Keep your cellular phone away from the public eye.
Avoid parking your motor vehicle where there are no security officers guarding other cars.
Make sure that all the doors and windows are properly locked when you park your car.
Valuable items like a laptop and camera should be put in the boot of your car.
At night, park in well-lit areas. Remove detachable radios and the radio’s face when getting out of the car.
Parking lots with a parking attendant or supervision/ someone patrolling are best, otherwise try to park in locations that are well lit and or well-populated and not crowded by bushes or buildings where offenders might hide. Do not walk alone at night.
Do not leave a party or social event with someone you do not know or have just met.