Limpopo SAPS Hosts Rural Safety Summit in Polokwane

POLOKWANE – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo hosted a significant Rural Safety Summit on Thursday, November 23, 2023, at Vleissentraal Bosveld Auction Hall in Polokwane, focusing on enhancing security in rural areas.

According to South African Police Service, the purpose of the summit was to discuss the implementation of a Rural Safety strategy, developed jointly by the police and those living in rural areas, including farmers. The strategy aims to foster mutual support among all stakeholders to combat crime effectively in the province. General Scheepers emphasized the need for collaboration to achieve tangible results against crime in Limpopo.

The summit was attended by key figures including Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Limpopo; Major General Jan Scheepers, the Deputy Provincial Commissioner responsible for Policing; Brigadier Isaac Mhlongo, the Provincial Head for Proactive Policing; AgriSA Limpopo Chairperson Mr. Douw Pelser; and members of the rural safety community from Mopani, Vhembe, Capricorn, Sekhukhune, and Waterberg Districts, among other stakeholders. Captain Ramoshaba and Constable Mogoba directed the program, with Brigadier Mhlongo and Mr. Douwer Pelser welcoming attendees.

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, in her keynote address, commended the farming community and other stakeholders for their significant contribution to the success of policing efforts in rural areas. She highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration to promote safety, protect property, and combat crime. Lieutenant General Hadebe also mentioned the SAPS’s plans to publicize more of their achievements through the support of Rural Safety Communities and other stakeholders, emphasizing that their services are free.

Participants at the summit were divided into five groups to discuss the Limpopo Rural Safety Implementation Plan and provide their inputs. Following these discussions, Mr. Douw Pelser and Major General Jan Scheepers summarized the resolutions made at the summit, which concluded with a prayer.

This summit represents a vital step in reinforcing safety measures in Limpopo’s rural areas, fostering cooperation between the police and community stakeholders.