Mandela and Marikana Sections in eMbalenhle cannot continue to be a haven for criminals and murderers.
This was Brig Sifiso Cele, cluster commander’s, opinion at a community meeting held on Tuesday, 23 May.
Locals told the brigadier they were ready and united to fight crime as long as he can promise he will deal with corrupt cops.
They said the crime rate in the area, especially murders, is too high and urged Brig Cele to enhance police service in the area.
No confidence in police
They have lost confidence in the local police, because officers have neglected several serious cases.
Residents accused officers of looting from foreign nationals and of being biased when they deal with criminals.
“Several murder suspects and robbers are walking freely in the community.
“Illegal miners who are in the country illegally, are also free.
“What are the police doing about it?” asked a resident.
Protest
The meeting was held after Marikana and Mandela Sections residents protested at the eMbalenhle Police Station against the high crime rate.
They demanded the attention of the provincial commissioner, but the station management urged them to speak to the cluster commander first.
Brig Cele said though he is still new in the area, he is determined to work hard to fight crime, but that it will only be possible if residents work with the police.
“I have already begun with some operations.
“Give me the information and tip offs, and I will respond swiftly.”
The brigadier called on residents to stop protecting criminals and denying police information when they are being questioned.
He advised them to report directly to him every corrupt police officer. He also said people must take down the registration number and take photos of cars they think are involved in crime.
“If officers are corrupt, they must be prosecuted but we will need evidence.”
Locals said the community policing forum is “useless” and did not want members of the forum to be given a chance to address them at the meeting.
“We do not want them to speak, because they are not serving us but their own interests.
“We wonder what they are reporting to the authorities, because they are not working.”
Brig Cele scheduled another meeting to form certain community policing structures.
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