Today, 20 August 2020, saw Operation Basadi take flight in Newcastle, NKZN. An operation which enjoys a collection of proud women from the various law enforcement agencies, come together for the common goal of ensuring the safety of the Newcastle community.
Shedding some light on this woman empowerment initiative, Brigadier Fred Alexander of the Amajuba District SAPS, explains due to August being Women’s Month, Operation Basadi’s purpose is to showcase the strength of women within law enforcement.
“It is an opportunity for women to show that they can do everything men can do. It is also an opportunity for them to express themselves, showing they can operate without men.”
Highlighting the role women play in law enforcement and society, what does Operation Basadi entail?
The operation sees female officers from the SAPS join forces with their female colleagues from the Department of Correctional Services, Department of Social Development, EMRS, the traffic department, as well as the departments of labour and health. With female members from the South African National Defence Forces also joining in the operation.
Brigadier Alexander explains, during the day, members of the operation conducted roadblocks along the Memel Road, R34, the Ingogo Road along the N11 and at Blood River, along the R33.
The various teams would then look at COVID-19 transgressions, which includes the wearing of masks in taxis, while also looking at other crime-related issues.
“With burglaries being an issue, we will be looking at goods being transported both in and out of Newcastle. The Stock Theft Unit is also involved with Operation Basadi and officers will be ensuring that no stolen livestock is being transported.”
Furthermore, Brigadier Alexander highlighted that perpetrators involved in car theft often use national roads, taking stolen vehicles to other towns. The team of women therefore ensured no stolen vehicles made their way in or out Newcastle.
The various departments, respective teams will also be searching for firearms and drugs, thereby minimising violent crime and drug abuse.
Deputy Director and Head of Maximum Correctional Centre from Waterval Correctional Services, Daphne Devasagayum, adds the Department of Correctional Services will not only be aiding the SAPS with the relevant searches for contraband.
“We will be searching for absconders and parolees attempting to leave town without the relevant permission,” she adds.
As the teams of law enforcement agencies enhanced their visibility, Brigadier Alexander stressed that several police officers have succumbed to COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. This, he says, reflects the sacrifices made by law enforcement to ensure the safety of the community always comes first.
While Operation Basadi enjoyed a successful launch, this was but the first leg of the operation.
It will continue on August 25 and August 31. On these two days, police officers will be conducting foot patrols in the CBD and searching for criminal suspects. Through visibility and a proactive stance against crime, Brigadier Alexander highlights that our female law enforcement officers will prove that they are a force to be dealt with.
Well done to the women in uniform, as they take crime head-on and strive for safety within the town of Newcastle.
Author: Quinton Boucher
Edited: Calvin Swemmer
