Deputy Police Minister Boshielo urges South Africans to welcome new year in at home

JOHANNESBURG - Deputy Police Minister Polly Boshielo says it would be ideal for South Africans to cross over into the new year from the safety of their homes.

She said this was the safest way to welcome the new year, citing concerns over crimes that tended to increase during this period.

Boshielo made these remarks while inspecting operations at the Beitbridge border in Musina, where she was overseeing activities at the port of entry.

The deputy police minister shared a message with South Africans, encouraging them to enjoy the festivities within the safety of their homes.

"I think we must just stay at home. We are not saying don’t drink, we are saying drink but stay at home. We come back in the new year refreshed with new ideas so that we can build the country."

She said that staying home was important as it helped prevent road accidents and other incidents that often resulted in loss of life during this time of year.

"As people die, those people with skills also die and our country will suffer. So have your drinks but stay at home."

Last year, more than 1,400 people died on the country’s roads during the festive season.