Community raises safety concerns at eMbalenhle public hearing
Key issues highlighted included allegations that some eMbalenhle police officers are working with criminals, as well as unresolved case dockets, missing case files, and the proliferation of taverns, which residents say contribute to crime.
The Mpumalanga Legislature Portfolio Committee on Community Safety, Security and Liaison held a public hearing on community safety at the eMbalenhle Ext 18 Community Hall on March 18. The Chairperson of the committee, Life Monini, was accompanied by committee members Teboho Sekaledi, Jabulani Mdhluli and Cathy Dlamini.
During the session, community members were given an opportunity to raise their concerns regarding safety in the area.
Key issues highlighted included allegations that some eMbalenhle police officers are working with criminals, as well as unresolved case dockets, missing case files, and the proliferation of taverns, which residents say contribute to crime.
Residents further expressed a loss of confidence in local police, alleging that some officers consume alcohol while on duty and misuse state vehicles for personal errands such as buying groceries. As a result, some community members recommended that soldiers be deployed to help stabilise the situation.
The issue of infrastructure was also raised, with residents pointing out that the eMbalenhle police station is congested due to the growing population.
They called on the committee to recommend the construction of a satellite police station in eMbalenhle south. Private security companies also appealed to be considered for providing security services at state facilities such as schools, citing ongoing burglaries and theft of valuable equipment.
eMbalenhle CPF chairperson, Ace Vilakazi, criticised the visit, describing it as a fruitless exercise. He said the community had expected feedback from the committee’s previous visit.
“We can’t keep on repeating our frustrations about crime in this area. You were here last year, and we raised these same concerns. Since the current CPF was elected, we have not received support from the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, which negatively affects the fight against crime. We expected feedback, not to raise the same issues again,” said Vilakazi.
In response, Monini stated that he was not part of the committee during last year’s visit but assured residents that all concerns raised would be escalated to the relevant authorities.
He added that the committee would ensure that urgent action is taken.
Monini also instructed SAPS station commanders and management to ensure that community members are treated with respect when visiting police stations, that cases are properly followed up, and that dockets are not lost.
The committee further directed that written responses, including clear action plans and timelines to address all the issues raised, be submitted to the Portfolio Committee no later than seven days.
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