Maun Police Station Commander, Superintendent Joseph Lepodise, has given an update on the ongoing Operation Pabalesego II, showing significant early progress as police ramp up visibility and community-focused crime prevention measures across the township.
Launched ahead of the festive season, the operation prioritises an on-the-ground approach, with officers deployed into various wards and conducting unannounced stop-and-search exercises. According to Lepodise, these interventions have already begun yielding results, highlighting both the prevalence of certain offenses and the effectiveness of heightened patrols.
Since the campaign commenced, police have recorded five cases of drug possession, incidents of stock theft, four cases involving possession of offensive weapons in public, and six cases linked to illegal alcohol depots. These early detections, Lepodise noted, point to underlying crime patterns that the operation aims to disrupt before they escalate during the busy holiday period.
As part of the wide-ranging strategy, officers will also conduct sporadic roadblocks to curb drunk driving, unroadworthy vehicles, and other road safety violations. Lepodise emphasized that preventing accidents is a crucial component of Operation Pabalesego, which will run until January 6, 2026.
Beyond enforcement, the Station Commander stressed the campaign’s educational role. Police officers will use the operation as an opportunity to inform residents on how to safeguard themselves, avoid becoming victims of crime, and navigate the festive season more safely.
Lepodise also issued a strong caution regarding activities near the Thamalakane River, where recurring risks posed by hippos and crocodiles remain a serious concern. He urged residents and visiting holidaymakers to avoid excessive festivities near the riverbanks. Parents, he added, must remain vigilant about the whereabouts of their children at all times to prevent them from wandering to the river unsupervised.
Addressing the link between substance abuse and rising crime, Lepodise highlighted a noticeable pattern: crime rates tend to spike on weekends due to excessive drug and alcohol consumption. While bars operate throughout the week, he said the “weekend excitement” often triggers more reckless behaviour, increasing both crime incidents and vulnerability to becoming victims. He appealed to the public to reduce drug intake and make responsible choices to protect themselves and the community.
Although still in its early stages, Lepodise affirmed that Operation Pabalesego is already playing a key role in deterring crime and enhancing public safety. He commended the positive response so far and encouraged residents to continue cooperating with law enforcement, stressing that public support remains vital to the campaign’s success.
He concluded by expressing optimism that the operation will help significantly reduce crime during the festive period, strengthen community-police relations, and ensure that residents and visitors experience a safer and more secure holiday season.
