Matsapha – Prime Minister (PM), Russell Mmiso Dlamini, is singing praises for the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) for combating crime efforts in the country.
Dlamini said it was pleasing to know that the police have heightened visibility and are committed to their work. He was speaking in the voice of Minister of Housing and Urban Development Appolo Maphalala at a national policing conference themed: Police Remain Resolute in Dismantling Crime Syndicates and Preventing Road Crashes to Fortify the Security and Safety of the Nation.
The PM commended officers for living up to their mandate and demonstrating unwavering dedication in ensuring the safety and security of Emaswati.
“We even witnessed the National Commissioner personally going out into the field to join officers during some of the operations; a noble act that is commended as it gives a morale boost to those on the ground,” he noted.
The PM also singled out the arrest of the suspect in the kidnapping and murder of eight-year-old Tifezile Gwebu, a case that shocked the nation.
“As the minister responsible for police affairs, I was happy to learn that the suspect in the kidnapping and murder of eight-year-old Tifezile Gwebu was arrested. This case gripped the country and sowed fear in many communities,” he stated, urging officers to continue to work with due diligence towards investigating and solving all cases.
Dlamini stressed the importance of consistently reviewing policing measures to effectively respond to emerging threats. He expressed concern over the rise in violent crimes, including homicides, gender-based violence, femicide, and sexual violence targeting women and children.
“Practical remedial solutions to this scourge should be devised, adopted and enforced as a matter of urgency,” he emphasised.
The PM noted that although the country had just concluded the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the responsibility to protect vulnerable groups remains a daily commitment. He expressed hope that the conference would cultivate tangible solutions to these crimes that have proven to be a challenge for the country.
Reflecting on progress since 2024, Dlamini applauded the police for maintaining momentum in investigations and arrests related to the facata scams. He also recognised the continued success of police visibility on roads and in public spaces, especially during the festive season, which he described as a highly effective crime prevention strategy. The PM further acknowledged the government’s provision of motor vehicles to enhance police efficiency and response times.
“It is my hope that this resource provided a timely boost to police operations, intensified police visibility and most importantly enhanced reaction time,” he said, urging officers to take good care of the vehicles to ensure long-term service delivery benefits.
Dlamini reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting policing programmes central to national safety and development, stressing the importance of a well-capacitated and flexible Police Service.
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