In response to the alarming crime rates in the country, the Botswana Police Service (BPS) senior officers came together during their Annual Senior Officers conference to discuss a number of resolutions to reduce crime in the country as well as other problems encountered in fighting crime.
The Commissioner of BPS, Thebeyame Tsimako, said they acknowledge that Gaborone and some parts of the South Central and Northern Divisions record high crimes and, in their efforts, have resolved to commit more resources to these areas and intensify police operations.
“As we are all aware, we have for long employed special constables and their services have been of great help to our service. Nowadays you can find police officers in the streets unlike in the past,” he said.
The BPS will also engage the youth in finding solutions when it comes to road accidents fatalities since they are the most affected. They also resolved to intensify public education on road safety.
The Public Relations of BPS, Christopher Mbulawa, explained that they have always engaged the youth in dealing with such problems and, as such, it won’t be a problem.
“We at times, when need be, go to schools or even the Botswana National Youth Council, and tell them about certain problems we have at hand. We then ask them to help us in involving the youth and this has, on many occasions, succeeded,” he said.
The BPS resolved to urge operatives to handcuff suspects at all times. Tsimako explained that it is their policy to help suspects and not beat them, therefore, in cases whereby police are said to have assaulted suspects an investigation is launched.
“We take these cases seriously, investigations are fully done and appropriate actions taken against the concerned officer if they are found guilty,” he added.
Furthermore, the Commissioner explained that they also have a relationship with the Directorate of Intelligence Services since they share similar mandate to protect Batswana. He asserted that they have confidence in the DIS because they believe they are competent to do their work.
“Some of these DIS officers were once police officers and as such they are competent in doing police work,” Tsimako added.
The BPS also assured the nation that it is ready to stand up to the challenge of the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament.
