BY MBONO MDLULI
MATSAPHA– Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has applauded the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) for intensifying their crackdown on Facata scammers, noting a marked increase in arrests over the past year.
Represented by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Appolo Maphalala, the prime minister delivered the remarks on Thursday, 11 December 2025, during the official opening of the Senior Officers and Senior Civilian Support Staff Members Conference at the Matsapha Police Academy.
Addressing Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials, the Higher Executive Command of the REPS, senior police officers and members of the media, the prime minister expressed confidence in the continued strengthening of national security through enhanced policing strategies. He praised the Police Service for consistently reviewing its performance and developing forward-looking strategies aligned with modern policing demands.
He said the annual conference served as a critical platform for introspection, evaluation and strategic planning, enabling the REPS to revise operational methods while anticipating emerging threats. The prime minister emphasised that such exercises reflected international best practice, as effective policing relies on constant self-assessment and innovation.
Highlighting the theme of this year’s conference – “Police Remain Resolute in Dismantling Crime Syndicates and Preventing Road Crashes to Fortify the Security and Safety of the Nation” – the prime minister said it reaffirmed the dedication of the Police Service to protecting the nation from all forms of criminality and maintaining order on the roads. The theme aligns with the operational mantra launched in Mafutseni the previous week, signalling continuity and determination in crime-fighting efforts.
The prime minister stressed that collaboration between the Police Service and the public remained essential to effectively combat crime syndicates and reduce road crashes. He urged all Emaswati to work closely with the REPS, noting that national security cannot be achieved by the police alone.
He commended the Police Service for achieving a reduction in overall crime statistics, stating that this was evidence of improved visibility and operational vigour. He highlighted the ‘Sikhona’ slogan launched last year, which symbolised the police’s readiness to respond swiftly and decisively to crime. He added that police officers had lived up to it by ensuring increased presence in communities and on the roads, thereby boosting public confidence.
The prime minister made special mention of the significant progress made in investigating and arresting individuals involved in Facata scams. He said the rise in successful arrests demonstrated the REPS’s unwavering dedication to curbing sophisticated forms of fraud that have affected countless citizens.
“I am glad to note that the number of arrests made since last year has increased,” he said, adding that the police continued to intensify investigations into scam networks. He described police performance in this area as a positive sign of strengthened national resilience against financial crimes.
The prime minister also commended the REPS for the recent arrest of a suspect in the kidnapping and murder of eight-year-old Tifezile Gwebu, a case that had shaken communities across the country. He encouraged officers to continue working diligently to bring closure to families and justice to victims.
Turning to violent crimes such as homicides, gender-based violence and femicide, the prime minister expressed concern over their upward trend. He called on the Police Service to devise urgent, practical solutions to reverse this pattern, emphasising that the end of the 16 Days of Activism campaign must not signal a slowdown in efforts.
He further highlighted government’s provision of new motor vehicles to the Police Service, describing the fleet as a vital resource for improving response times, visibility and overall operational efficiency. He urged officers to take good care of the vehicles to ensure long-term service delivery benefits.
In conclusion, the prime minister thanked all police officers for their commitment throughout the year and ahead of the festive season, as well as for their role in preparations for the upcoming Incwala Ceremony. He encouraged the continued observance of professionalism and adherence to ethical standards.
“Your dedication is what makes the nation appreciate the role you play in our society,” he said.
(Courtesy Pic)
