DE AAR – The Northern Cape MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Ms. Limakatso Koloi, together with the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, launched the Safer Festive Season Operations in the Pixley Ka Seme District today, 23 October 2025.
As a prelude to the launch, the Pixley Ka Seme District Medal Parade was conducted at the SA Army Ammunition Depot in De Aar. A total of 34 officers and members were awarded medals for 20 and 10 years of loyal and dedicated service.
The parade was followed by the official launch at the Merino Stadium in Sunrise. The launch was also honoured with the presence of the SAPS Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lieutenant General (SOEG) Baile Motswenyane, the Regional Commissioner of Correctional Services for the Northern Cape and Free State, Commissioner Subashni Moodley, members of the PROV JOINTS structure, as well as several government departments and sponsors.
The Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Johnny Besnaar, kick-started the proceedings with a welcoming address. Messages of support were delivered by various stakeholders, including the Interim Provincial Community Police Board and the labour union POPCRU.
Lieutenant General Otola officially launched the operation with a brief overview of the expected operational actions and a commitment to ensure that all citizens are and feel safe. With more boots on the ground, efforts will be focused on key crime trends in hotspot areas.
The Provincial Commissioner handed over the Northern Cape Provincial Operational Plan after receiving it from the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Johnny Besnaar, who, together with the two Junior Provincial Commissioners, handed it over to the MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Ms. Limakatso Koloi.
During the keynote address, MEC Koloi reaffirmed the government’s support in ensuring that law enforcement agencies are bolstered as they execute their duties during the Festive Season. She concluded by urging the community to work with the police, who risk their personal safety to ensure that all citizens in the province are safe and secure.
A simulation and show of force were displayed to showcase the state of readiness and available operational resources. Several units, including the SAPS Airwing, Tactical Response Team, Public Order Police, Mounted Unit, K9 Unit, Search and Rescue Unit, Highway Patrol, and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, joined by the Traffic Department, Correctional Services, the Department of Home Affairs, and the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, formed part of the display.
The programme concluded with a sincere vote of thanks delivered by the Pixley Ka Seme District Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe.
Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner launches Safer Festive Season Operation in De Aarhttps://t.co/UlTgO2E9iL#ArriveAlive #Crime @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/H4rhpIsovI
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) October 23, 2025
