Premier hands over 36 new vehicles to police for festive season operations

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi with Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thami Ntuli during a ceremony at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Mayville on Tuesday where 36 vehicles were handed over to the SAPS for increased security measures over the festive season. Pictures: Supplied

Thirty-six new vehicles were handed over to the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, by the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thami Ntuli during a ceremony at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Mayville on Tuesday.

Speaking at the event, Premier Ntuli said there was a critical need for increased resources on the ground as he presented the province’s crime statistics for the second quarter. The handover is part of the ongoing Safer Festive Season operations aimed at ensuring secure and peaceful celebrations.

Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi welcomed the addition, saying that while the fleet was insufficient to meet all needs, it was a vital boost in the fight against crime.

“These new vehicles will assist our officers in reaching more people faster. We will ensure that they are used exclusively for official duties and will act against those who misuse them for personal gain,” he said.

The Provincial Commissioner issued a stern warning to criminals: “Leave our citizens alone. Police will be out in full force to ensure that everyone can celebrate in a safe and secure environment.”

Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba reassured both local and international visitors that Durban was fully prepared to deliver a safe and enjoyable festive season.

eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba and other dignatories went on a walkabout of Durban’s beachfront and other attractions, to inspect the facilities. Pictures: Supplied

On Tuesday, Mayor Xaba conducted a walkabout along Durban’s iconic beachfront and uShaka Marine World to interact with visitors and evaluate the city’s readiness to welcome tourists. He expressed satisfaction with the city’s cleanliness and the strong presence of law enforcement.

“This is a season of relaxation and enjoyment. I am delighted to see our visitors having a wonderful time at our warm beaches and swimming pools,” said Xaba. “We encourage people to come to Durban in large numbers to explore our wide range of tourism products. We are confident of attracting over 1.3 million visitors during this festive season.”

The Mayor noted the peaceful and lively atmosphere along the Golden Mile, where early morning crowds signalled a promising holiday season.

Visitors praised law enforcement officers for ensuring their safety and commended the city’s hospitality venues for their exceptional service. “We have no doubt that visitors will take home fond memories of Durban,” Xaba added.