Note to Editors: Attached please find an English soundbite from Michael Sun here.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi is failing the residents of Gauteng by making promises to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) with essential resources, but without giving any commitment to delivery. The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng demands that Premier Panyaza Lesufi provide specific timelines, a budget clarity and an implementation plan for resourcing our police stations as per the needs and prioritises list.
During the DA’s recent engagement with SAPS Johannesburg Central, it was made clear that traffic congestion in the inner city is making it increasingly difficult for officers to respond swiftly to crimes and emergency callouts. Additionally, the patrol vehicles in use are not in optimal condition, further complicating their response efforts.
The SAPS Johannesburg Central police management further indicated that motorbikes would improve their ability to navigate congested streets and respond faster. Special Terrain Vehicles (STVs) are essential to combat illegal mining and infrastructure theft in veld areas.
Although the Premier has acknowledged the needs highlighted above, his promise to provide motorbikes and protective gear for police stations across the province lacks specific timelines, budget clarity, and a clear implementation plan.
The lack of resources for police stations like Joburg Central has dire consequences. It can heighten criminal activities such as theft, vandalism, and extortion, which may eventually cause small businesses to collapse and result in them laying off their employees. Furthermore, poor safety within the city discourages investors, thereby preventing economic growth.
A DA-led Gauteng Provincial Government would ensure that words are turned into action by establishing an immediate task team to assess and prioritise the need for STVs and motorbikes across Gauteng SAPS; identifying and allocating available resources to fast-track procurement so that police officers have the tools they urgently require; providing comprehensive training and protective riding gear to all officers operating these vehicles to ensure both effectiveness and safety; and implementing a system of regular feedback and performance assessments of the effectiveness of these units to guide future investment and resource allocation.
The DA believes that our police officers cannot effectively combat crime with mere promises. They require genuine tools and substantial support from a government that delivers. We will do everything in our power to ensure they receive what they need to protect the residents of this province and provide quality services.