6 November 2015
Government is satisfied about the number of positive developments since President Jacob Zuma visited the community of Eersterust on 21 August 2015. President Zuma and several other Ministers visited the area during a Presidential Imbizo where the community raised their concern over the issue of drugs and crime in the area.
Following the Imbizo, a three month anti-crime operation under the banner of Operation Fiela was launched to tackle issues of crime and criminality and to ensure peace, stability, security and harmony within the community. There were over 48 operations which are were conducted in close cooperation with the SAPS Crime Intelligence Division.
These interventions have resulted in increased police visibility, patrols, roadblocks and searches. Police have conducted targeted raids on suspects and there have been several arrests and convictions. At the same time several outreach and awareness programmes were also undertaken in the community.
There have also been several visits to schools to educate learners about the dangers of drugs and gangsterism. Police have also worked collaboratively with the Drug Action Committee to identify children addicted to drugs who require help.
The support we have received from the Eersterust Community Policing Forum and concerned residents has been instrumental in the success of our operations.
These successes are indeed encouraging, but we must work harder to ensure safer communities throughout South Africa. We also know that we cannot win the fight on crime without the active support of communities and individuals.
Government will therefore continue to partner with communities to ensure a safer country, and calls on all South Africans to join the fight against crime and drugs.
Enquiries:
Phumla Williams (Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration spokesperson)
Cell: 083 501 0139
Issued by Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)