CACHALIA | SANDF to support, not replace SAPS in W Cape gang crackdown

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia reaffirms that the deployment of the South African Defence Force (SANDF) to combat gang violence and crime in the Western Cape will be in a support role for the police. 

Speaking to CapeTalk’s Africa Melane, he said the South African Police Service (SAPS) will retain the primary responsibility for policing matters. 

“The army will be there in a supporting role. We have got to bring some order and an end to the killings. The gangs have been running rampant, and a lot of people have lost their lives.” 

RELATED: SANDF deployment: More than 450 soldiers deployed to Gauteng

Following Western Cape Premier Alan Winde’s threats of legal action over policing resource shortages, Firoz acknowledges the capacity constraints facing the SAPS.

He argues that it is important for provincial and local authorities to take responsibility for addressing development challenges in the communities.

He explained that addressing gang violence is not just a law enforcement issue but also a socio-economic one.

He emphasises the need for a multifaceted approach that involves government, community, and the police working together to address the root cause of the problem.

“We have got to understand that in our communities, the main issue is development, a lack of opportunity, particularly for young people. I am hoping all levels of government can intensify their efforts to address their underlying socio-economic issues.

“I hope the communities themselves can assume responsibility, together with the police, to lead communities, to organise communities and assume some agency because community involvement is going to be critical,” he said.

To listen to Cachalia, use the audio player below: