SIYABUSWA – Approximately R70 million has been allocated to crime-fighting initiatives, including the Community Policing Forum (CPF), across the country.
This was revealed by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu during an engagement with CPF members and stakeholders in Siyabuswa on Wednesday, 11 December.
Minister Mchunu, accompanied by his deputy Cassel Mathale and National Commissioner Fannie Masemola, addressed crime-related challenges in the area.
Key issues discussed included the funding of CPFs, stock theft, police recruitment, the release of suspects shortly after arrest, and safety in schools. Limited resources and a lack of tools of trade were also identified as obstacles to SAPS’ efficiency.
Vusi Mtsweni, a youth representative involved in crime prevention, appealed for government support in their efforts to steer young people away from criminal activities.
“Most of the crime in our villages is committed by the youth,” he said. “Our aim is to rid our community of the bad apples, but this cannot be achieved without government support.”
Mtsweni further highlighted the shortage of vehicles at Siyabuswa SAPS, which services over 26 villages, and urged Minister Mchunu to provide additional resources.
Stock theft was also flagged as a pressing issue in the area, with frustrations expressed over perceived delays in police action.
“We note that some of you feel SAPS’ efforts in curbing stock theft are ineffective,” Mchunu acknowledged.
However, he pointed out that police reports indicate a significant recovery rate in stock theft cases.
“This shows that the police are indeed working. We will explore ways to improve so that the perception of weakness in addressing stock theft cases is corrected,” he said.
Mchunu also committed to returning to the province for a more comprehensive engagement session.
