DEAR Editor,-
The DA extends its sincere condolences to the families of the two elderly citizens brutally murdered in their Cottonlands home last Monday. We also wish a speedy recovery to the Darnall farm attack victim who was, the very same day, hacked with a sugarcane knife in her home.
The assault and murder of innocent people, particularly those living in KZN’s rural areas, has become an almost daily horror. Not only do these attacks strike fear into rural communities, they also affect farming, employment and food production.
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The increasing number of such attacks and murders does not only affect farmers. Farm workers are also at the mercy of criminals. Regrettably, these incidents also serve to heighten tensions between different groups within rural communities. These tensions are then further increased by a growing racially divisive rhetoric peddled by some political parties. While there have been numerous police cases opened, very few have ever been finalised with suspects arrested and convicted. These delays then further heighten fears and tension.
No community should have to live under such circumstances. The DA strongly believes that prevention is better than cure and that government should be taking proactive steps to prevent these crimes before they occur.
In this regard, we have long called for the reintroduction of specialised units within the Saps, including the rural safety unit. International best practice shows that this is the most likely way in which to curb the rise of violent crime. Along with this, is the need to ensure that police stations, including those in rural areas, are well-resourced and that officers are highly trained.
The rural economy is absolutely vital if SA is to survive its current recession. The agricultural sector has the ability to create millions of jobs during these desperate times. A key factor for this to occur is safe rural communities for farmers and farm workers. The DA will continue to fight for a safer South Africa.
DR RISHIGEN VIRANNA, MPL
DA KZN Spokesperson on Community Safety and Liaison
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