Police tighten security as Dundee July festivities draw near
Umzinyathi District Commissioner, Major General Francis Slambert, said the SAPS has finalised its operational strategy in partnership with key stakeholders, including the local municipality, private security firms, traffic authorities, emergency medical services, and event organisers.
Police visibility will be significantly increased in and around the racecourse, as well as on key routes leading into Dundee. Law enforcement operations will include vehicle checkpoints, high-visibility patrols (both on foot and in vehicles), crime prevention deployments, and crowd management units on standby. In addition, liquor outlets will be monitored and municipal by-laws enforced.
'We appeal to all attendees to work with law enforcement, to celebrate responsibly, and to report any suspicious activity immediately. Our goal is to ensure a safe, enjoyable event for all,' said Slambert.
Parents and guardians are urged to closely supervise minors, while motorists are reminded that drinking and driving will not be tolerated. Offences such as public drinking, drug use, and illegal possession of firearms will be dealt with strictly.
The SAPS in Umzinyathi remains committed to providing a secure environment, protecting the rights of all, and ensuring that the 2025 Dundee July is remembered for its cultural spirit, not criminal incidents.
In case of emergency or to report suspicious activity, contact Dundee SAPS on 034 299 9700, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App.
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Far too often victims of crime and women and children in particular, regretfully fall through the cracks of an overburdened criminal justice system when it comes to post-trial attention and ongoing counselling. We were gratified to be informed through the diligence of counsel for the State, that the complainant had received some counselling. '(The woman) of her own volition, expressed to the court that she hoped that this matter may help other victims of gender-based violence and rape, as she wished her story and experience to be heard. To the extent that we have taken this unusual approach to the matter, we hope that this judgment sends out a strong message that rape and gratuitous violence of the nature that the complainant faced, as do so many other women and children, are not taken lightly by the courts,' said Judge Pangarker. 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