TZANEEN – Gangsterism has made a worrying comeback in Dan village and nearby communities, prompting urgent discussions among local leaders and law enforcement.

This was confirmed during a community meeting convened by the Ritavi Police Station (Nkowankowa).

Addressing attendees, Capt Jeffrey Ngobeni revealed that an increase in gangster-related cases has been reported since November last year.

“The prevalent groups, Boko Haram and Masakhinyo terrorised our communities five years ago,” Ngobeni said.

“In 2019, the situation improved when the community, along with the community policing forums (CPF) and police, took a stand and patrolled the streets to combat crime. However, this resurgence shows the need for renewed vigilance.”

Ngobeni said that arrests alone are insufficient to curb gangsterism.

“You arrest them today, but they return to crime when released. Sustainable solutions require community involvement and proactive measures.”

The meeting also highlighted a troubling trend of gang activities in schools in Dan and Nkowankowa. According to Ngobeni, police were called to address multiple incidents during last year’s matric exams.

Nicholas Shingange, chairperson of the Ritavi CPF, criticised the lack of involvement from local leaders.

“Crime needs community leaders to lead and show leadership. Only one councillor from the affected areas attended this meeting,” he said.

Shingange called for unity, stressing that fragmented leadership has allowed gangsterism to resurface.

“If we don’t stand together, we won’t win this fight,” he warned.

Six affected communities, Dan, Nkowankowa, Mariveni, Shikwambana, Mokgolobotho, and Khujwana were identified as hotspots during the meeting. Among these, gangsterism is most concerning in Dan, Mokgolobotho, and Khujwana, with smaller-scale issues reported in Mariveni and Nkowankowa.

Shingange also raised alarms about sexual violence targeting elderly women in Shikwambana. He urged families to ensure the safety of vulnerable members, particularly those living alone.

Shingange said that a unified approach among stakeholders once defeated gangsterism but has been undermined by fragmentation among leaders.

Ngobeni attributed the current resurgence to a relaxation in community vigilance.

A follow-up meeting involving a broader community representation is scheduled for Sunday, January 19, at 08:00 in Dan/Nkomanini.