Stakeholders meet to discuss crime in Sheppie CBD
The indaba was attended by most law enforcement departments.
Port Shepstone CBD has become a haven for criminals and a drug den. For months people have been complaining about crime, saying that there is no help from the police.
Many people are being mugged and robbed, some have been injured and the situation is worsening.
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (RNM) together with law enforcement departments have heard the cries for help.
RNM held a Crime Prevention Indaba recently, to look at the crime situation around Port Shepstone CBD and to try to find solutions.
It was also a platform for stakeholders and the government to discuss crime challenges being faced.
Ratepayers, farmers, security companies, SAPS, Road Traffic Inspectorate, business owners, SA National Taxi Council, Liquor Board and other stakeholders also attended.
As each entity did a presentation the main issue seemed to be around the abuse of drugs and theft.
With paras (criminals) and drug dealers roaming around, it has resulted in an increase in crime in town.
Scott Wichmann, chairperson of the Izotsha Farmers’ Association said farmers are also suffering.
“Crops and stock have been stolen on farms and we believe it is because of the drug problem. They steal and sell, so they can buy drugs. We have had copper cables stolen in our workshops and houses.”
Vijay Naidoo, CEO of the Port Shepstone Business Forum said that when there is a perception that a place is unsafe people do not come back, and that will happen in Port Shepstone if the crime is not dealt with.
“One reason for so much crime is that there is no activity in the town after working hours.”
Mbuso Hlengwa of the Liquor Board acknowledged that alcohol is one of the main factors related to crime. He also said that the sale of illegal alcohol is a problem.
“We have been fighting the illegal sale of alcohol for years but it is difficult. Sometimes liquor-related crimes are said to be ‘petty crimes’ and are thrown out of court.”
Hlengwa said with these reasons it is difficult for the board to shut down illegal sellers.
SAPS and other law enforcement departments said they will work together to resolve the problem and have came up with suggestions and plans to save Port Shepstone.
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