Botswana recently marked a significant achievement in maintaining public safety during the festive season with the successful execution of Operation Pabalesego, a collaborative effort between the Botswana Police Service (BPS) and the Botswana Defence Force (BDF). The operation, which received commendation from Honourable Moeti Mohwasa, Minister for State President, saw a notable reduction in criminal activities across the country.
Honourable Moeti Mohwasa praised the seamless coordination and synergy between the BPS and BDF, attributing the operation’s success to their joint efforts. He expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the effective enforcement measures and enhanced visibility of law enforcement personnel during the festive period. This increased presence contributed significantly to maintaining order and ensuring the safety of citizens and visitors alike.
According to reports, Operation Pabalesego yielded a 9.8% decrease in criminal offences compared to the previous year. In 2023, 735 criminal cases were reported during the festive season, whereas in 2024, this number dropped to 663 cases. This reduction underscores the effectiveness of proactive policing strategies coupled with community engagement initiatives.
The Minister emphasized that the positive outcomes of Operation Pabalesego were not solely due to enforcement actions but also to the cooperation and support from local communities. Community involvement, through initiatives such as neighborhood watch programs and crime prevention partnerships, played a crucial role in bolstering the efforts of law enforcement agencies.
As Botswana continues to prioritize public safety and security, operations like Pabalesego serve as benchmarks for future collaborative endeavors between the BPS and BDF. The success of this joint operation reinforces Botswana’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all its citizens, ensuring that festivities are enjoyed without compromising on safety measures.
Looking ahead, stakeholders are optimistic about building on the achievements of Operation Pabalesego, further enhancing inter-agency cooperation, and strengthening community partnerships to sustain the momentum in crime prevention and law enforcement efforts across Botswana.
