GEORGE NEWS - A zero tolerance attitude towards crime will be enforced this holiday season, especially towards gender based violence and sexual offences.
According to Southern Cape Police Spokesperson, Capt Malcolm Pojie, police in the greater George will increase their visibility and presence during the holiday season.
This includes the 16 days of activism for no violence against women and children.
The five phases of their Back to Basics: Safer Festive Season campaign started at the end of October and will run until the end of January.
"Our priority this year is the safety of women, children and other vulnerable members of our community," he said.
"Throughout the holiday season we will deploy our Cluster Task Team to enhance the various stations in our area and ensure the safety of our holidaymakers.
"Entertainment establishments where alcohol is served will be frequented with the focus on underage drinking.
"Owners of these establishments should take heed and implement all possible measures to prevent children under the age of 18 to use alcohol on their premises."
He said that they will be extremely active at all the hotspots during the holidays.
This includes Plettenberg Bay during the Matric Rage, Hartenbos and other popular areas.
Police programmes for 16 days of activism
On 4 December, Pacaltsdorp police will be having a puppet show at New Dawn Park and Pacaltsdorp primary schools for the little ones.
On 8 December they will be in Syferfontein between 10:00 and 13:00 to create awareness about gender based violence.
Members of Conville police will pay a visit to the Rosemoor clinic on 1 December.
On the second they will be at the Harry Comay Hospital to empower and inform victims of domestic violence.
They will be visiting suspected perpetrators on 6 December to try and reduce domestic violence in the area.
George police station will be hosting a march in Blanco on 8 December to support victims of gender based violence and to create awareness around violence against women and children.
A prayer session will be held at the Thembalethu Community Hall from 12:00 to 16:00 today, 30 November.
Victims of gender violence will be paid a visit on 5 and 7 December and on the 10th, Human Rights Day will be celebrated at the community hall under the theme "The world needs a father".
ARTICLE: KRISTY KOLBERG, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST
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