Africa-Press – Botswana. The Commissioner of Police, Commissioner Dinah Marathe, has commended dikgosi in the Morolong area for their commitment to fighting crime and strengthening community safety. She delivered the remarks during a meeting with local dikgosi held on 16 December 2025 at Goodhope Village.
Commissioner Marathe recognised the dikgosi for their consistent leadership within their communities. She described their role as critical to community development and nation building. She stated that the Botswana Police Service values the guidance of traditional leaders who mobilise communities to take collective action against crime.
She emphasised that crime prevention depends on strong partnerships between the police and communities. According to the Commissioner, cooperation makes it possible to address crime and social problems that threaten peace and safety. She urged dikgosi to continue working closely with the police to protect citizens and property.
The Commissioner raised concern about transnational organised crime, with stock theft highlighted as a major challenge in the Morolong area. She called on dikgosi to maintain support for police efforts aimed at reducing livestock theft, which continues to affect local farmers and rural livelihoods.
Commissioner Marathe noted that the Botswana Police Service, working with the Botswana Defence Force, has intensified crime fighting efforts through Operation Pabalesego II. Officers have been deployed to hotspot areas to curb livestock theft, particularly along the Botswana and South Africa border.
She further explained that the BPS is collaborating with South African law enforcement agencies through joint meetings and coordinated cross border patrols. These measures target stock theft and other crimes that operate across national borders.
The Commissioner reaffirmed that the police will continue strengthening operations and community partnerships. She highlighted the involvement of farmers’ committees and Mephato as effective tools for intelligence sharing and early crime detection. These structures play a direct role in protecting livestock and supporting law enforcement.
Beyond stock theft, Commissioner Marathe called on dikgosi to support the police in addressing Gender Based Violence and drug abuse in their villages. She described drug abuse as a growing national concern that requires coordinated action from leaders, families and institutions.
She also encouraged the inclusion of young people in cluster committees. She noted that youth involvement can help communities respond to emerging crimes such as cybercrime and substance abuse. Early engagement reduces long term risk and strengthens prevention efforts.
In response, Kgosi Lotlaamoreng II of Morolong thanked Commissioner Marathe for engaging with dikgosi despite her demanding schedule. He expressed concern about the continued livestock theft along the border.
Kgosi Lotlaamoreng II welcomed the increased deployment of the Botswana Police Service and the Botswana Defence Force in the area. He said the presence of security forces has improved confidence among farmers and communities affected by cross border crime.
The meeting reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between traditional leaders and security agencies. Both sides agreed that sustained partnership remains essential to protecting communities and reducing crime in the Morolong area.
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