Technology, policing and community collaboration are needed to curb the smuggling of illicit goods and influx of undocumented immigrants into KZN.

These measures to strengthen border security were shared by Premier Thami Ntuli during his Tuesday visit to the Golela border post which separates South Africa from eSwatini.

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Ntuli, who is the executive authority responsible for the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, continued his Operation Siyahlola visit to Ingwavuma Police Station.

Condemning the poor state of the station, he committed to engaging with the minister of police about improvements.

He then addressed the crowd at Bhambanana community hall, where he spoke about gender-based violence, encouraging people to allow the law to run its course.

“I have heard that rape victims report their ordeal to their families, and perpetrators are asked to pay fines or damages. Also, when rape and domestic-related cases are reported to the police, the following day, these cases are withdrawn. People should stop withdrawing cases,” said Ntuli.

The premier urged communities to work with the police for any real progress to be made.

“Criminals are our husbands, boyfriends, sons and brothers. Criminals buy illegal firearms and hide them in their homes.

“They claim to have bought these guns for protection, but they buy them to kill someone. Report these incidents to the police before someone is killed.”

For people who are afraid to report directly to the police, Ntuli said to call Crime Stop on 086 0010111.

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