Police step up anti-gang fight, but battle far from over – Cachalia

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia says, while law enforcement is not currently in a position to defeat the gangs, it has stepped up efforts to combat organised crime.

“With the number of search warrants, arrests, joint operations, and confiscations, it is clear that the police have very significantly stepped up their operations, but so have the gangs.”

He added that, as the gangs continue to grow in wealth, power and global reach, policing on a global scale has had to adapt and evolve.

SAPS has established an Anti-Gang unit with 142 officers and increased operations in hotspot areas, including the Eastern Cape and Western Cape.

Cachalia proposed a comprehensive approach that includes strengthening intelligence-oriented policing, community development, and youth programmes.

“We have allocated R1 billion from the CARA funds (Criminal Assets Recovery Account) for the Anti-Gang strategy. We are now in the process of looking at how to monitor the implementation of that strategy,” he said.

He added that local and provincial governments must work together with the national department to address the social and economic roots of crime.

“Dealing with the gangs is not going to be simply about law enforcement. Those communities need development, youth development programmes, more investment, and a focus on parenting and education. We need a comprehensive approach.”

To listen to Cachalia in conversation with 702’s Bongani Bingwa, use the audio player below: