Police Minister Bheki Cele at a Ministerial Stakeholder Engagement to address crime challenges in uMlazi.


POLICE Minister Bheki Cele has called for crime-fighting structures, government, and the police to work together to combat crime in uMlazi. Addressing a Ministerial Stakeholder Engagement on 13 August in uMlazi, Minister Cele called for
residents to refrain from harbouring criminals. He was accompanied by Police Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale, KwaZulu-
Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Sipho Hlomuka, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda and
members of the South African Police Service. “Crime is a societal matter. 

Therefore, society must come together to tackle this challenge. If all relevant structures work together, we can achieve safe communities,” said Minister Cele. Speaking to representatives of Community Police Forums in uMlazi, Minister Cele said he aimed to ensure that uMlazi is off the top five list of crime hotspots identified in the Crime Stats Report. He also announced that there was a batch of police trainees that will be released soon and will be distributed particularly in
areas identified as crime hotspots. 

KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi added that the police force will be
strengthened by filling all vacant positions. “This will assist in increasing police visibility. Also, resource allocations will be reviewed for better distribution. Most importantly, a comprehensive plan will be compiled with station commanders on the
implementation of crimefighting measures,” he explained. Community Policing Forum member Lindiwe Mbhele pledged
to work with police in eradicating crime in uMlazi. “Women and child-headed households have become targets for criminals in this area. 

If we work together we can beat this challenge and ensure a safer environment for all,” she said. Mayor Kaunda pledged to assist with the installation of floodlights in areas identified as hotspots. The Ministerial Stakeholder Engagement will also take place in other areas in eThekwini. 

silindile.cele1@durban.gov.za