KEY POINTS
- Strengthening community policing forums can reduce violent crime.
- Ntuli says illegal weapons must be eliminated from neighborhoods.
- Concerned citizens are key to fighting crime in KwaZulu-Natal.
To combat rising crime, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has urged communities throughout the province to fortify community policing forums.
Community policing forums must be strengthened to stop rising crime
Following another horrific mass killing in Umlazi, south of Durban, where eight people were shot dead by suspected criminals on Friday night, he made the appeal.
On Saturday, Ntuli went to the spot and spoke with people of the neighborhood who were worried about the rise in violent crime.
Locals talked about how shootings and other violent crimes have grown commonplace, traumatizing neighborhoods and families.
In an interview with the media, Ntuli urged local communities to work with law enforcement and local forums to actively restore safety.
“Let’s mobilize every society in the province to realize we must unite to stop this wave of killings,” Ntuli said, referring to community policing.
He went on to say that locals must take initiative and work together to create safer, more watchful communities rather than depending only on the government or police.
In order to stop more lives from being lost to unchecked crime and illegal firearms in circulation, Ntuli underlined the necessity of swift community action.
He urged all facets of society, including civic, religious, and youth organizations, to support concerted efforts to reduce crime and ensure community safety.
“Our concern must lead to action. Ntuli addressed the assembled reporters, “Every resident should stand up and declare that there are no illegal firearms or crimes in KwaZulu-Natal.”
Community policing forums must be strengthened to stop rising crime
He emphasized that community policing forums are crucial venues for residents and police to communicate, work together, and share intelligence, not merely optional frameworks.
According to Eyewitnessnews, the Umlazi shooting is one of numerous similar incidents that have occurred in recent months, according to police sources, raising concerns about an increase in gang activity.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward and help with the continuing police investigation into Friday’s mass murder.
As he wrapped off his visit, Ntuli urged local authorities to set up frequent safety gatherings, increase public awareness, and restore public confidence in the police.
We can retake our streets if we work together. It’s time to reclaim this province, which belongs to its people, Ntuli declared.
