Given the apparent inability of the SA Police Service to cope with the scourge which has left 23 people dead in recent months, it is clear some intervention is needed.

But why can’t the police handle this? It cannot be a matter of manpower, as more resources could be pulled in from other areas.

The suspicion is that police are hobbled and compromised by the gang culture.

The SANDF, even if it were efficient and effective, would not be able to wave a magic wand.
In addition, the operations  of the SANDF in such situations are circumscribed by  regulations about their role in supporting the SAPS.

Before too long, soldiers could easily be subject to the vicissitudes of  gang culture.

Breaking the hold of gangs and drugs is a  complex challenge that includes  the roles of families and prisons. 

Calling in the army would send  an alarm signal that on its own  would be inadequate.