Duduza residents march against crime
Motaung said one of the challenges they have identified is a lack of police visibility.
Duduza – Residents of Duduza marched to the local police station last Friday to hand over a memorandum of grievances with regards to crime in the area to station commander Lt Col Bheki Mhlungu.
On their list of grievances were hijackings, burglaries, muggings, theft and gender-based violence.
Residents urged Mhlungu to increase police resources to help fight crime in the area.
March organiser Ward 96 councillor Tefo Motaung explained that since last year they have noticed an increase in crime, especially hijackings and rapes in Kwatsaduza.
Also read: Residents march against crime
“We decided to mobilise residents to a march to our local police station to share our fears and commit to working with the police to help them fight crime,” he added.
Motaung said one of the challenges they have identified is a lack of police visibility.
Residents raised concerns that criminals are targeting the area since it is easy to drive in and out with stolen goods without being caught.
They committed themselves to work hand in glove with the police.
Motaung added they refuse to be held at ransom by the criminals.
“This is our community and we will fight to restore peace, law and order,” he added.
Duduza police spokesperson Sgt Harry Manaka said they are happy that residents are committing themselves to help fight crime.
“The police won’t be able to fight crime without the help of the community.
“Some criminals are members of the community, even our family members, yet we mustn’t turn a blind eye and not report their illegal activities to the police,” he added.
Manaka urged residents to refrain from sitting in their cars in the middle of the night.
Also read: Residents march against gender-based violence
He also offered the following safety tips:
• Do not stop when an unknown vehicle is flicking its lights at you. Rather drive and stop where it is safe.
• When you come across a rock or any object that is obstructing the road do not try to remove it. Rather make a U-turn and drive off.
• Do not sit in your vehicle at night while parked on the pavement
• Do not offer lifts to strangers
• Do not stop your vehicle at night for any reason.
• Do not ask for directions from anyone on the road. Rather go to the nearest police station.
• Another trick being used by hijackers is to bump your vehicle so you stop and check the damage. Be aware.
• Doors should be locked at all times
• Windows to be closed if possible.
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