13 Mar 2025

Francistown police are battling a persistent problem of motorists who knock down traffic lights.
Using CCTV footage, the police have made several arrests, according to Traffic Divisional Commander (North),  Assistant Commissioner Modisaotsile Solomon.
He explained that while the cameras were proving effective in identifying offenders, the prosecution process was lengthy due to the damage being classified as damage to government property.
“We have made arrest in the past, which is proof that our cameras are very effective,” he said, adding however that he could not provide the total number of people arrested.
ACP Solomon noted that  majority of incidents occurred on weekends, often attributed to drivers impaired by alcohol after attending entertainment events.
He urged motorists to refrain from drinking and driving, adding that most of the traffic lights that were commonly knocked down were those nears FOURS supermarket and the old BMC roundabout, which has now been turned into traffic intersection.
Meanwhile, Francistown Deputy Town Clerk -development, Mr Molapisi Morapedi explained that the high cost of repairs further compounded the issue.  
He said almost all traffic lights along the crucial A1 route were frequently damaged by motorists, leading to significant disruption and costly repairs for the city council.
He explained that the problem was widespread, affecting virtually every junction along busy highways.
Mr Morapedi said the damage extended beyond simple bulbs as the poles themselves were impacted.
Repair costs vary considerably depending on the type of pole damaged.
A cantilever pole, for example, he said could cost upwards of P20 000 to repair, while standard poles typically needed at least P14 000, with additional costs dependent on the number of signal heads.
While a standard 5-meter pole with two 3-aspect signal heads and two pedestrian signals can reach a repair price of P12 000.
Mr Morapedi stated that the situation was further complicated by lack of access to CCTV camera footage, which were managed by police.
“Despite the damage to council property, apprehending wrongdoers proves challenging, as the cameras are under police jurisdiction.
Sometimes the council apprehends wrongdoers even though we have no access to CCTV cameras” Mr Morapedi added, highlighting the frustrating challenges faced by city officials in addressing the issue. ENDS