RAMPANT criminal activities ravaging eSikhaleni and surrounding areas, including the release of suspects, could not be attributed to members of the police services.
This was the view of South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) Provincial Executive Committee member, Muntukayise Bhekuyise Ntuli, speaking at SANCO’s Khuluma Mhlali programme held last week at Umfolozi TVET College.
Ntuli was responding to concerns raised by residents about car theft, house robberies and other criminal activities affecting the eSikhaleni community.
‘I know from experience that the men in blue are doing their work with diligence. They are capable of arresting criminals or those suspected of committing crime.
‘Most of you are concerned when suspects arrested today are seen loitering in the streets the very next day.
‘The duty of our police is to arrest, not to prosecute. In this regard I think it is our justice system that is letting us down.
‘It seems there are loopholes somewhere and this is something we need to look into as an organisation,’ Ntuli said.
Other issues
Some community members raised concerns about ever increasing municipal rates.
‘We are unable to keep up with payments of municipal rates and we are pleading with SANCO to intervene on our behalf as the poor,’ said one resident.
Others voiced their displeasure at the sale of Thanda Royal Zulu’s PSL status to AmaZulu, saying local supporters have been given a raw deal.
‘It pains us to think that we had a soccer team which we were made to believe was ours. Millions of ratepayers’ money were invested in the team through our local municipalities, only to be sold before we even played one game in the PSL.
‘We had hopes of having a team campaigning in top flight football which would have stimulated local economic development, while also unearthing local soccer talent.
‘Hosting big games involving Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs and Pirates, among others, would undoubtedly have created economic spin-offs for the region,’ said one resident.
SANCO’s regional leadership committed to take up all issues raised with the relevant authorities.
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