The Eastern Cape acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso and her management convened at the Shark Rock Pier, Hobie Beach, Summerstrand in Gqeberha on Friday, 24 October 2025, for the official launch of the #Safer Festive Season Operations. The event was deemed as the show of force to demonstrate power and state of readiness in tackling the challenges of crime during the period known for celebrations, gatherings and holiday traditions.
The official programme was preceded by demonstrations and displays from various stakeholders and SAPS specialised units.
SAPS members and other law enforcement partners including the SANDF set the tone, with a lively and powerful display of discipline and teamwork, which was exhibited during a parade, where highly synchronized and coordinated movements showcase unity and dedication.
The climax of the event was the meticulous delivery of the operational plan by the SAPS diver, who was lowered by the military chopper to a small inflatable boat (rubber duck), to showcase the precision and teamwork, which is commonly seen during search and rescue operations between the SAPS and the army.
Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, in her address, she said,” Our operational plan is a multifaceted strategy against crime which requires the commitment of all law enforcement agencies, built on six unwavering pillars, namely, aggressive crime prevention, enhanced border security, robust traffic policing and road safety, intensified operations at tourist hubs, combating cybercrime and commercial crime and strengthening partnerships. During this period, our police visibility would be intensified with emphasis on the theme: “Combating crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement ‘, added Maj Gen Kupiso.
The SAPS also invested in physical resources to enhance service delivery through vehicle acquisitions. These efforts are to reallocate resources to frontline services and improve operational efficiency. The resources were allocated as follows:
1) Alfred Nzo District – 10 vehicles
2) Amathole District – 18 vehicles
3) Buffalo City Metro District – 19 vehicles
4) Chris Hani District – 15 vehicles
5) Joe Gqabi District – 9 vehicles
6) Nelson Mandela District – 28 vehicles
7) OR Tambo District – 15 vehicles
8) Sarah Baartman District – 15 vehicles
9) Provincial Head Office – 2 vehicles
