Newly appointed Secunda Cluster commander, Brig Sifiso Cele, is dedicated to reduce crime in the area

Though Brig Sifiso Cele was welcomed by angry locals from eMbalenhle who picketed outside the eMbalenhle Police Station to voice their dissatisfaction with police services in the area, he said he had a fruitful meeting with them.

The locals demanded to get the attention of the provincial commissioner, however the eMbalenhle Police Station management advised them to meet with Brig Cele.

They were unhappy about various issues, including police corruption and neglected cases.

Residents also raised concerns over illegal miners who are mining openly in the area and the many murders.

Brig Cele said most of the concerns were genuine and his team is working hard to assist the locals.

“We agreed we will have an Imbizo so we can get everybody in one room and thoroughly scrutinise the problems.

“My hope is that the community will work with us to deal with these problems.

“We commend them for voicing their concerns.”

Brig Cele has consulted with the intelligence office to assist him with identifying the most problematic areas so he could come up with a plan.

About the illegal mining, Brig Cele said the police regularly conduct operations in the area and that he is working around the clock to find permanent solutions.

He said regarding the murders and the shootings, police have arrested suspects which they hope will lead to a breakthrough in the area.

Brig Cele hopes his experience as a brigadier will help to solve the burning issues in the area.

He has worked at various police stations, including eMalahleni, Middelburg and Piet Retief.

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