Police to keep a keen eye on children over festive season

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This year, the campaign will focus on crimes against women, children, persons with disabilities and the elderly.

"We wish to utilise this year's campaign to reiterate government's commitment in eradicating violence against women, children and the elderly. We understand that crimes such as rape and sexual offences affect different communities, irrespective of their socio-economic status and background," Mthethwa said at the launch on Thursday in Cape Town.

While the police will continue to arrest those who commit crime, Mthethwa said a greater and growing awareness among parents and guardians to look after and protect children must be intensified within society.

He called on communities to partner with law enforcement agencies to combat abuse, neglect and the exploitation of children this festive season.

"You have a responsibility as parents and society in general to protect your children against drug abuse. It cannot be left to government alone to deal with this challenge."

The country has seen several child murders being reported, which highlighted the need for intensified protection of children.

Mthethwa also made a call to communities to work with government and police to raise awareness over the scourge of substance abuse, which is regarded as playing a role in most crimes.

"We want to say that young people, these criminals who sell you drugs are not interested in your well-being. These drug lords are hell-bent on destroying your future. Do not get hooked because that will be the beginning of the destruction of your lives."

The minister said they have partnered with the Department of Basic Education, which will see various preventative programmes in support of safer schools.

The aim of school-based crime prevention programmes, Mthethwa said, was geared at making schools a safe and secure environment free from violence and crime, conducive for learning.

"The focus, however, is to build resistance and resilience amongst learners to crime and violence and also from victimisation and offending behaviour," he said.

When Duty Calls will also focus on aggravated robberies, border security, illegal firearms, liquor, the enforcement of the Second Hand Goods Act, and by-law and road safety enforcement.

Police will embark on various policing operations countrywide, interacting with communities, business sectors and various organised structures with an objective of intensifying the fight against crime.