| 2024/03/24 |
|
Media Statement
POLOKWANE – The Deputy Minister of Police, Mr. Cassel Mathale (MP), led a successful Crime Prevention Imbizo, hosted by SAPS which took place at Malamulele Community Hall in Vhembe District, Limpopo on Saturday 23rd March 2024. The event marked a significant step forward in the government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all South Africans through direct community engagement and collaboration. The Imbizo brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including law enforcement officials, community leaders, local government representatives, and residents, to openly discuss the challenges and strategies related to crime prevention in Malamulele and Saselamani policing areas respectively. Acting Divisional Commissioner for Visible Policing and Operations, Major General T Mathonsi gave the purpose of the event which is mainly to engage members of the community on crime related issues, listen to their concerns and inputs with the objective to enhance service delivery and reduce crime. In her remarks, the Executive Council (MEC) for Transport and Community Safety, Ms Florence Radzilani before introducing the Functionary, indicated the engagement seeks to rekindle the relationship between the community and police to restore confidence in the work of police. During the event, Deputy Minister Mr Cassel Mathale stated, “The fight against crime requires the involvement of all segments of society. We must stand firm against crime because some of the crimes are a result of irresponsible actions, and individuals have the power to change and create a crime free society. “Let’s all report illegal mining activities and eradicate these criminal networks permanently. The issue of ritual killings is a serious concern, and in some cases, it’s not only traditional healers who are involved but members of the community amongst us, working closely with them. We must also deal with the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide including rapes and sexual offenses.” Key outcomes from the Imbizo include the establishment of community-based crime prevention initiatives, enhanced communication channels between the SAPS and the community, and a commitment to regular follow-up engagements to assess progress. The Deputy Minister also announced the allocation of additional resources (commissioned vehicles) to address specific challenges identified by the community. The Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe extended her gratitude to all participants for their valuable contributions and said she looks forward to the positive impact these collaborative efforts will have on reducing crime in this area. The distinguished guests in attendance included Executive Mayor of Vhembe District Municipality Cllr Nkondo, Mayor of Collins Chabane Local Municipality CIIr S Maluleke, Hosi Xilungwa Mhinga II, Divisional Commissioner: Forensic and Detective Services, Lieutenant General T Mulaudzi, Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe,
Acting Divisional Commissioner for Visible Policing and Operations Major General T Mathonsi, Secretary for Police Mr T Sibuyi, representatives of the house of traditional leaders, Heads and delegation of government entities, CPF and other crime prevention structures.
Enquiries: |
|
|
| Additional content: |
|
|
