Xhakaza urges residents to be vigilant during the festive season

Ekurhuleni mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has urged residents to be vigilant during the festive season regarding crime and reckless driving.

Xhakaza made the remarks at the launch of the Gauteng Police’s annual safer festive season operation in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni.

Xhakaza has encouraged residents to work with law enforcement officials.

“We therefore make the solemn call to our residence, do not drink and drive and let us all conduct ourselves responsibly during this period. Far too many lives are lost each year due to restlessness and the behaviour, and we must work together to change this. We’ve been working tirelessly to strengthen our law enforcement and emergency response. And during this festive season, our community safety, you know, departments, together with the EMPD, we continue to invest in modern tools, training, and resources to enhance the safety and visibility, you know, within our community. We have procured 50 VW Polo vehicles,” says Xhakaza.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi says there will be zero tolerance for tavern owners operating without licences this festive season. Lesufi was speaking at the launch of the Gauteng Police Safer Festive Season Operation in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni. The annual operation aims to curb rising crime through police visibility and targeted operations. Lesufi says police officers will be deployed across the province to maintain order.

“We don’t want taverns that make noise beyond their licenses, and hear them play music Gumba, Makumba. It’s not the time of Magumba, yeah. It’s a time for our children to learn peacefully. So professional commissioner, the government that I have the order to lead will ensure that all those taverns that operate without licenses must be targeted during this particular period. If you don’t have a license, you must not operate the tavern. If you have a license, you must adhere to the license requirements of that particular license,” says Lesufi.