Plan needed to combat crime, says DA
The Mpumalanga DA is planning on calling the newly appointed provincial police commissioner, Lt Gen Semakaleng Manamela, to present a plan to the legislature on how serious crimes will be handled to ensure they start declining.
MBOMBELA -The police minister, Bheki Cele, recently released the country’s latest crime statistics.
The DA’s spokesperson for community safety, security and liaison, Trudie Grové-Morgan, said her organisation will deliver a motion of notice as it is concerned about the rise in serious offences related to gender-based violence.
“The provincial crime statistics for July to September showed an 8.4% increase in reported sexual assault cases and a 10% increase in rape cases across Mpumalanga. Another growing concern is the major increase in kidnappings. A 33% increase was reported in the province. It is clear that the police and government are failing the battle against gender-based violence,” she said.
ALSO READ: Shongwe concerned over increased rape cases
“During oral questions in the legislature, the MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Vusi Shongwe, concurred that the increase in violence against women and children was concerning as the spotlight is placed on the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence. If the government truly wants to put an end to the abuse of women and children, the 16 Days of Activism campaign must change to a 365-day one, and it needs a collective government strategy. All departments must work together to bring an end to violence against women and children,” said Grové-Morgan.
