The holiday season is a period when many individuals become victims of crimes, but most occurrences may be prevented if people pay close attention to their surroundings and take proactive safeguards.
Erongo Police Regional Commander, Commissioner Nikolaus Kupembona said this during his festive season and crime prevention message.
Kupembona said the festive season brings an increase in traveling, shopping, and socializing, therefore, it appears to be a peak period where crime rates escalate.
He said, the police together with other stakeholders, will carry out robust police operations during the festive season.
He explained that these operational interventions are aimed at engaging the community, such as business sectors, churches, schools, and community groups, to strengthen and intensify the fight against crime.
The Commissioner further added that some prevalent crime risks during this period include housebreaking and theft, ATM and online fraud, theft under false pretense, cellphone and handbag snatching, robbery, and shoplifting.
Citizens are asked to protect their properties, be vigilant and always scan the environment around them in whatever they do, especially when withdrawing large amounts of cash from banks.
"Criminals will come and look for opportunities, that is why I want to urge all our citizens and visitors alike to protect their items, and where ever they need any guidance, they should approach any law enforcement agency for their safety."
He said, that should something out of the ordinary or suspicious behavior be observed, it must be reported immediately to the nearest police station or road traffic checkpoint.
Police visibility will be the order of the day during the festive season and beyond.
He warned criminals that the police will not tolerate criminal behavior towards the public and that they are determined to tackle crime at all costs.
He also appealed to all road users to adhere to traffic rules and regulations by ensuring that their vehicles are roadworthy, stick to the allowed speed limit, and maintain a safe following distance.
"Citizens that are intending to travel or to have their holiday in the Erongo Region, I want to urge them to be responsible road users, the road is a shared responsibility and everybody must contribute to the safety of these roads to insure that safety is guaranteed. "
Road users were reminded to refrain from drinking alcohol or using any intoxicating substances while driving, not overtake in blind spots, and to rest enough before their journey.