Note to Editors: Please find the attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Crezane Bosch MPL and English and Setswana by Cllr Alfred Makhafula.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng calls on the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to intensify their collaboration to combat crime. This follows a recent incident at the Soshanguve’s Marry Me Informal Settlement, where patrollers, who dedicate their time to protecting their community, were confronted by a group of individuals, leading to a deadly altercation that claimed four lives and left eight others wounded.
The level of violence, with victims not only shot but also partially burned, is alarming and highlights the urgent need for stronger crime prevention measures.
We cannot allow a situation where community members who step up to fill the gaps left by an under-resourced police force are murdered in such a brutal manner. If patrollers are targeted, it will discourage community involvement, making it even easier for criminals to terrorise residents.
Our recent oversight inspection at the Temba SAPS made it clear that both the Temba and Rietgat precincts are struggling with the immense challenges posed by illicit alcohol sales and their violent consequences.
The DA Gauteng extends its deepest condolences to the families of the community patrollers who tragically lost their lives. We also wish a full recovery to those who were injured in this horrific attack.
A DA Gauteng-led provincial government will ensure that all police stations are equipped with the resources needed to ensure community safety.
We will continue to monitor this case closely and push for more vigorous policing efforts to restore law and order in Soshanguve and beyond.