The Cleveland SAPS management has called for political tolerance.
Colonel Bongani Dlamini, the Cleveland SAPS station commander, has urged people to report intimidation, threats and all other serious crimes related the upcoming national elections.
“We want a safe and peaceful election. We are gathering information and will conduct operations to prevent problems closer to elections. I urge people to be tolerant. If people are being threatened or intimidated, please report these incidents to us,” said Col Dlamini.
During a recent Cleveland Community Police Forum (CCPF) meeting, Col Dlamini made it clear to the public that the SAPS will not be used “for politics” as their mandate is to address crime.
“My hands are full dealing with crime. There are certain issues relating to politics that we do not deal with. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is clear about the laws relating to elections. We as the police are here to provide safety to the community and address crime,” he said.
While the SAPS is trying to address crimes that fall within its mandate, officers are also receiving complaints such as people removing political party posters.
The SAPS management said it will address any issues that could lead to serious problems but also assured the community they will not take focus off crimes taking place on a daily basis throughout the precinct.
At a previous CCPF meeting, Col Dlamini said the SAPS and the community has to work together to create a safe environment.
He said the SAPS’ successes over the past year were the result of community participation in the fight against crime.
