Crime in Ratanda under the spotlight
A special meeting was called to discuss a course of action for the issue.
Various groups and individuals raised their concerns over the recent spate of shootings and murders, particularly in Ratanda.
A special meeting was called at the new hall in Ratanda on March 6 to discuss a course of action for the issue.
“We need to stand up against crime in the area,” said the chairperson of the meeting and Lesedi Local Municipality (LLM) councillor, Papi Machitje.
“The escalating crime is threatening the safety of everyone and needs to be addressed as an urgent matter. We must take the political angle out of the issues and stand united as one.
“On important issues like this, the community leaders must take charge and not be silent. This includes law enforcement.”
The attendees were unimpressed that the SAPS representatives did not attend the meeting because they had many questions for them.
“We need an open forum to discuss the latest criminal acts in our own backyard,” said community leader Sandile Maseko
“Community members need to feel safe and not be scared to do their daily tasks. Unity is vital to ensure the implementation of the correct measures.
“Leaders in Ratanda need to be committed to their community,” added Maseko.
In the closing remarks, LLM MMC of Community Services Thulani Mashanini spoke out against the current crime wave.
“We need to unite in our quest for safety. We are all traumatised. Ratanda needs to get back to the peaceful township everyone knew.
“One death is already too much, and it needs to stop. Pride of humanity needs to take preference and is non-negotiable,” he said.
Machitje said more negotiations and engagements with various stakeholders would happen in the next few days to discuss a way forward.
