Citizen patrols vs private security in townships

While suggestions of introducing private security companies to help patrol township streets gain momentum, KwaDukuza CPF chairperson Dr Mfuneni Zungu believes rules and regulations first need to be put in place.

He said this is necessary to ensure security companies do not abuse their power and end up being a threat to the communities they are called in to protect.

He conceded towns such as Ballito and those in other urban areas in KwaDukuza are much safer because of the presence of private security companies.

“But we must realise the way one deals with Ballito, for example, cannot necessarily be the same you deal with Ntshawini or any other township. The streets are different, and the culture and behaviour of people are totally different,” said Zungu.

He said while community policing forums and other role players are looking at the matter, they are encouraging men to step up and protect their areas.

“We already have men patrolling streets in townships such as Melville, Thembeni, Lindelani and Shakaville. We are also going to work on this programme in other areas as well because it does make a difference. We hope business people become part of this initiative.”

Zungu said the suggestion of introducing private security companies frequently comes up in community meetings, with residents saying they are prepared to contribute between R50 to R100 towards security in their areas.

“But if this is not done properly it can easily be corrupted and end up terrorising the same community it is meant to protect,” he said.

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