Africa-Press – Lesotho. The Commissioner of Police (COMPOL) Borotho Matsoso has assured Basotho that the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property during the festive season and the transition into the New Year.
In a Christmas and New Year message to the nation, the COMPOL Matsoso said that the festive season is an important time for families to come together, but also a period that requires heightened vigilance due to increased criminal activity and road traffic volumes.
Reflecting on the year, the Commissioner noted that the police recorded significant successes in preventing and combating crime with achievements that include a reduction in serious crimes such as murder, stock theft, motor vehicle theft and armed robbery, as well as improved road traffic management and enhanced protection for tourists and investors.
Despite these gains, COMPOL Matsoso expressed concern over the rise in gender-based violence, particularly in the districts of Butha-Buthe, Leribe, Berea and Maseru adding that stock theft also remains a challenge, especially along the Maputsoe–Peka border area, while drug abuse continues to pose a serious threat, particularly among young people.
The Commissioner further highlighted that road accidents remain a major concern, with many incidents attributed to drunk driving, failure to obey traffic signs, speeding, lack of road courtesy and the use of unroadworthy vehicles.
Meanwhile, COMPOL Matsoso highlighted that to ensure public safety during the festive season, the LMPS has intensified its operations across the country.
He indicated that Police officers will be deployed in large numbers in towns, villages, on major roads and in all public spaces and House-to-house operations and patrols will be conducted in identified crime-prone areas, while roadblocks will be mounted to deter criminal activities.
He stated that the police have also stepped up traffic control measures in anticipation of heavy traffic flow during the holidays.
He mentioned that the Stop-and-search operations, commonly known as “Ema Ke U Phopholetse”, will be carried out nationwide and these include inspections of livestock at kraals, checks on vehicles, weapons, illegal immigrants and drugs, as well as reinforced security at border posts.
Furthermore, the Commissioner urged members of the public to take personal responsibility for their safety by securing their homes, businesses, livestock and valuables when travelling.
Motorists were strongly advised not to drink and drive, to obey traffic laws, wear seatbelts, avoid speeding and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy.
