Policing Forum seeks ways to combat crime
Residents say it does not help that the police arrest criminals, but magistrates release them.
EVANDER – Cluster Police spokesmen and the Community Policing Forum (CPF) hosted a community dialogue with business sectors, government and the community at large to discuss the crime in the area.
The dialogue was hosted by Evander Police Station on Tuesday, 20 October.
The burning issue was illegal mining and illegal immigrants who are affecting businesses in and around Evander.
Illegal miners roam the streets and commit crime such as housebreaking.
Drug lords are also accused of targeting young people, especially high school pupils and Gert Sibande TVET college students.
“Criminals dictate how we should live our lives and we allow them to do so,” said Mr Ben Makola, Ward 17 councillor.
Illegal miners and illegal immigrants are allegedly given accommodation by residents who rent out rooms to them.
Residents are accused of not knowing who these people are and are not even aware of what they do in these rooms.
eNkomeni near Evander and eMbalenhle have a high rate of rape cases.
The public said a lot of criminal activities are taking place at a house near the Engen Garage in eMbalenhle.
Residents also said it does not help that the police arrest criminals, but magistrates release them.
“We are the breeders of crime, because we also steal cables from street lights and then complain that the lights are not working,” said a resident.
It was alleged during the meeting that police cars are being used for private businesses and when residents need help, they are told that all the cars are out.
One attendee said some women get involved with foreigners because local men do not support them and their children.
Capt Magonseni Nkosi from eMbalenhle Police Station said they are committed to fight crime and urged the community to report any suspicious people or crime immediately.
The following resolutions were adopted during the meeting:
There should be programs for junior station management and the youth desk.
Police should conduct school searches once per quarter including at the GS College.
Department of Education should provide private security at schools.
There should be a follow up with drug addicts and drug supplier facilities in and around Evander should be eradicated.
Business people should be encouraged to participate in the Community Policing Forum, street committees and ward committee meetings.
Intensify Adopt-A-Cop programs by schools.
Police should improve their visibility within the community.
Know your neighborhood campaign should be promoted.
Parents are encouraged to provide lunch boxes for their school children instead of money.
This is because children end up buying drugs with the money.
The police should invite the Justice Department and National Prosecution Authority during their dialogues.
Mines must demolish old buildings and old mines.
Govan Mbeki Municipality should assist the community of eNkomeni to evict illegal immigrants and illegal miners.
The Department of Police Service was given 30 days to implement the resolutions and report back at the next meeting.
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