Harding begs Bheki Cele for help
General Bheki Cele engaged with communities on crimes that threaten safety and security in their areas.
In addressing organised crime, targeting hitmen and their masters in Harding, the leader of government business must direct the Minister of Police, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Minister of Social Development, and the Minister of Home Affairs to be part of the Ministerial Crime Prevention Imbizo in the area.
This was a sentiment shared by Police Minister, General Bheki Cele in Harding on Monday last week when he was engaging with communities on crimes that threaten safety and security in their areas.
Cele said the Department of Police cannot solve the issue alone, adding that departments such as correctional services also need to play its part.
He added that in Umuziwabantu there are currently 108 people who are out on bail, saying that seven of them were accused of murder.
“And that is where the problem is, the police will investigate and arrest but when perpetrators receive bail, there is only so much that we can do,” said Cele.
A resident in KwaMbotho, Andile Gwacela, told the Minister that what worries them mostly is the fear of not returning home after leaving for work or for town.
“We have also lost all faith in the police. I am not sure whether they are afraid of the criminals or what but nothing constructive has been done by them to solve the issue,” said Gwacela.
Other residents shared stories of how some family members were killed by criminals suspected to be hitmen.
Cele said he will appoint a team of detectives to investigate organised crime in Harding.
He added that it is a problem when people die and there are no arrests, saying that it is even a bigger issue when those arrested are out on bail.
“Some residents are complaining about the local police station saying that it is not responding to their complaints when people are killed. The police ministry will speak to national police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola so that specialised and focused detectives will go to Harding to deal with the outstanding cases,” said Cele.
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