KEY POINTS
- KZN Premier calls for collective action to fight crime.
- Youth economic empowerment programs aim to reduce crime rates.
- Law enforcement intensifies efforts against criminal gangs.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for a unified effort to tackle crime, emphasizing that it is not just a policing issue, but a societal challenge.
Speaking at the Council Against Crime Strategic Planning Session held over the weekend in Durban, Ntuli stressed that the province must refine its crime-fighting strategies and ensure that law enforcement, businesses, and communities all play a role in creating safer neighborhoods.
“The fight against crime cannot be won by government and law enforcement alone. It requires a united front—every leader, every community member, and every sector of society must play their part,” Ntuli said.
Moreover, he validated that socioeconomic issues, particularly among the youth, significantly contribute to increasing criminal activities.
As part of the province’s crime-fighting strategy, the government is focusing on economic empowerment programs that offer young people alternatives to crime.
Investing in youth and community safety
The province has organized Youth Leadership Ambassadors to direct anti-crime activities in their local communities and fight the fundamental causes of criminal actions.
The government operates in partnership with EPWP and SETA to deliver skills training alongside employment opportunities that present legitimate economic possibilities to young people.
Additionally, the government has dedicated itself to enhancing community protection systems beyond basic economic development measures.
According to IOL, Ntuli also highlighted the high crime rates in Inanda, which remains one of the most dangerous areas in the country.
Also, a Crime-Fighting Imbizo will be organized by the provincial government at Inanda to ensure residents witness safety restoration efforts.
“All crime formations that have taken root in Inanda will be dismantled. The West Gang will cease to exist in our lifetime. Crime will not define our communities—we will,” Ntuli declared.
Strengthening law enforcement and public engagement
KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lt. Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi reaffirmed law enforcement’s commitment to combating crime.
However, he revealed that a West Gang member was recently arrested in Inanda, adding that police will not hesitate to neutralize suspects who engage in violent confrontations.
Siyanda Biyela, who serves as Provincial Secretary of the Community Police Forum stated that criminal activities result from broken families and high teenage pregnancy rates and poverty conditions.
Additionally, he emphasized that communities should refuse to support the market for stolen merchandise because it supports criminal organizations.
Furthermore, the KwaZulu-Natal government will proceed with investments to support active crime prevention programs through moral regeneration efforts, community education and Ubuntu value restoration initiatives.
Every member of society plays a crucial role in maintaining safety, according to Ntuli’s standpoint.
Also, as crime continues to plague KwaZulu-Natal, the government’s multi-faceted approach offers a renewed sense of hope.
The effectiveness of these current initiatives to decrease crime will be confirmed through future assessments.
