The Botswana Police Service (BPS) marked a significant milestone yesterday with the official handover of a brand-new community service facility at Maun Police Station, courtesy of Zhengtai Group Botswana. The facility replaces a temporary tent that had been used previously and is expected to vastly improve service delivery, comfort, and operational efficiency for both police officers and members of the public.
The newly built structure features a modern reception area, receiving office, and referral office—facilities that will serve as critical points of engagement between the police and the local community. The development is seen as a major step forward in strengthening community policing efforts in the area.
Commissioner of Police, Dinah Marathe, who officiated the handover ceremony, expressed deep appreciation for Zhengtai Group’s gesture. She lauded the company’s commitment to giving back to the community since establishing its presence in Maun in 2019, describing the donation as a commendable example of corporate social responsibility during economically trying times.
Commissioner Marathe emphasized the critical role public-private partnerships play in strengthening law enforcement and improving infrastructure. She praised the growing business support for the “Adopt-A-Police Station” initiative and urged more companies to invest in enhancing police facilities across the country.
In her address, Commissioner Marathe also highlighted positive trends in national crime statistics. Botswana recorded an 8% decline in crime between 2023 and 2024, with Maun and its surrounding areas experiencing a slightly higher drop of 8.3%. She attributed this progress to effective community policing strategies and encouraged continued collaboration in combating emerging threats such as gender-based violence, cybercrime, drug abuse, and road traffic accidents.
“Your continued support and sacrifices are the driving force behind our quest for continuous service improvement and transformation,” she stated.
Zhengtai Group Botswana Director, Mr. Stephen Liu, also spoke at the event and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with the police and the local community. He acknowledged the indispensable role that police play in ensuring public safety and expressed hope that the new facility would empower the BPS to deliver services with greater dignity and efficiency.
“We believe that this new Maun Police facility will enhance the BPS’ ability to serve the people of Maun with even greater efficiency and dignity,” Liu said.
He added that the construction of the facility is a clear reflection of Zhengtai’s long-term commitment to the communities in which they operate. The company, he noted, will continue to partner with law enforcement and other stakeholders in the ongoing fight against crime.
The newly inaugurated facility is already being hailed as a symbol of progress and cooperation, demonstrating what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together for the common good.