Government is committed to deal with challenges of crime, safety and substance abuse

23 February 2016

The security cluster will make immediate intervention to deal with issues of drug lords and unregistered guns in community of Booysen, Port Elizabeth.
This was the commitment made by Minister of Police, Nathi Nhleko during a Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) community outreach programme to Booysen Park in Port Elizabeth.

Nhleko was joined by Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Thabang Makwetla, Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Kebby Maphatseo. They were accompanied by Executive Major of Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Danny Jordaan, MEC for Safety and Security in the Eastern Cape, Wenzile Tikana as well as the Provincial Commissioner, Lt-General Binta.

Members of community were afforded an opportunity to engage directly with senior government officials from three spheres.
Amongst other issues raised, communities asked the JCPS cluster to increase visible policing, to deal with drug lords and ensure that all corrupt people are held accountable. Challenges in relation to social ills such as drug abuse, unemployment, teenage pregnancy and children who stay out of school were also discussed at the community meeting.
In response to the requests, Minister Nhleko emphasised that communities should see themselves as part of the solution to their problems. He urged community members and structures to work together with law enforcement agencies.

“Government alone cannot solve crime issues, I call upon communities to cooperate and assist us by sharing information that may lead to the success of the intervention and decrease crime” said Minister Nhleko.
The JCPS Cluster will continue to implement its programme of visits to communities around the country to engage directly with community members and stakeholders. These engagements are part of government’s participatory democracy approach where members of the public are allowed space to raise issues with government leaders and offer advice on resolving their challenges.

Enquiries:
Musa Zondi
Cell: 076 331 4810

Issued by Government Communication and Information Systems