Homicides increase in the area
Residents say it is getting harder to live in eMba because of violent crimes.
eMBALENHLE – Locals are not at peace about the alarming increase in murders and violent crimes in the area.
They said a number of homicides reported weekly in the newspaper reflect bad on the area and the police.
Residents said they no longer feel safe inside their homes, let alone walking down the street in the evening.
They called on the police to increase the work force and their patrols, especially over weekends.
“It is an indisputable fact that eMbalenhle is unsafe for anyone.
“As much as the police claim to be working hard, we do not see that as residents.
“Crime is escalating every second and we even fear for the safety of our children when they go to school.
“Recently an 11-year-old baby girl was found strangled and killed.
“This is barbaric,” said a resident.
Locals slammed the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and said it does not represent them and is not as active as in previous years.
However, Mr Joseph Mhlongo, chairman of the CPF, disputed that the CPF is not actively involved in the community and said the CPF constantly hosts community meetings.
He said playing the blame shifting game will not help to deal with the problem, taking responsibility will help.
“It is true that crime is high in the area and we need to unite as a community and fight crime.
“The killers are living among us and we must expose them.
“Let us report them to the police.”
Capt Magonseni Nkosi, police spokesman, said the police have noted the concerns of the residents and are working around the clock to eradicate crime.
“We are calling on residents to partner with us in the fight against crime.
“When crimes happen, there are usually witnesses who do not come forward with information.
“We really need them to come on board.”
Capt Nkosi said arrests are being made.
