Botswana: Botswana Police Service (BPS) has acquired a new fixed wings aircraft from Absolute Aviation Holdings (Pty) Ltd in South Africa worth P130 Million.
The aircraft landed at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (SSKIA) on 19th December 2023 and joined the existing BPS fleet of eight helicopters that are instrumental in the fight against crime in the country.
Appreciating the aircraft on Thursday at SSKIA, the President, Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, said the Government is committed to resourcing the BPS, hence the acquisition of the new aircraft.
The President also stated that funds permitting, the BPS should in future consider acquiring aircrafts with more ample carrying capacity so that they are able to transport a sizeable number of operatives at a time. He was thankful that the new aircraft would enhance airborne policing in the country.
Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the Minister of Defence and Security, Thomas Kagiso Mmusi, thanked the Government of Botswana for allowing the Botswana Police Service to acquire an additional aircraft.
Minister Mmusi said that the Police would be able to execute their duties effectively and ensure a safer society. The Minister also mentioned that the new aircraft would improve police efficiency and aid in rapid response to incidents and operations in distant areas around the country.
In his remarks, the Acting Commissioner of Police, Phemelo Ramakorwane, apprised the President that the aircraft augments the current fleet of the BPS, which is used in aerial patrol, response to emergency calls and assisting officers on the ground. He assured the President that the BPS would continue to serve the nation and reach out to different parts of the country on time.
The Beechcraft King Air 360, which has a carrying capacity of 12 passengers and two pilots, was manufactured by Textron Aviation Company based in the United States of America. The new aircraft is beneficial because of its carrying capacity, long flying distance and agility.