A rise in gang-related murders has prompted Ward 65 councillor Donovan Nelson to call on Western Cape Minister of Community Policing and Oversight Reagen Allen to intervene.
Nelson has called for “targeted interventions and increased policing” as residents are being “plagued” by crime and murders.
In a letter addressed to Allen and Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith, Nelson expressed his deep concern.
“The safety and well-being of our residents are of the utmost importance and it is imperative that we address this issue promptly and effectively. I believe it is our collective duty to ensure the safety and security of our residents, especially our youth. To that end I kindly request your immediate attention and support in tackling the rising gang violence in our ward.”
Nelson further requested an urgent increase in police presence, community policing initiatives and targeted interventions at crime hot spots. “We urgently require additional police officers deployed in our ward to enhance visibility and response times.
“This would serve as a deterrent to criminal activity and allow for quicker intervention when incidents occur.
“Cooperation between various law-enforcement agencies, such as the police and Metro Police, is crucial for these operations’ success.”
Victim support and counselling were also urgently needed to assist families affected by gang violence.
“This will help victims and their families cope with trauma and prevent retaliation. I believe that by implementing these strategies we can make significant progress in reducing gang-related violence and improving the overall safety of Ward 65.”
Responding to the letter, Allen told People’s PostLaw Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) officers are deployed in volatile areas where it is needed.
“There are certain areas where the Western Cape Government (WCG) deploys its Law Enforcement Advancement Plan officers.
“In addition to this, also to address other criminal matters, while ensuring both crime prevention and law-enforcement efforts complement each other.”
The top 10 murder areas in the Western Cape, such as Delft, Gugulethu, Harare, Khayelitsha (Site B policing precinct), Kraaifontein, Mfuleni, Mitchell’s Plain, Nyanga, Philippi East and Samora Machel are currently the murder hot spots.
“Other high crime areas in which they are deployed are Atlantis, Bishop Lavis and Hanover Park, along with Lavender Hill, Steenberg and Grassy Park.
“In 2019, the Western Cape Government launched the Western Cape Safety Plan with the primary goal of reducing the murder rate by 50% by 2029.
“Our interventions are data-led, based on evidence and where the need is greatest. This approach is also used as part of monitoring and evaluation to determine the effectiveness of LEAP and inform a cycle of continuous improvement.”
Allen further added that a comprehensive response will be sent to Nelson.
“Correspondence such as this is always welcoming, as it shows that there is an interest in ensuring that matters related to safety are addressed in communities.”
