The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s portfolio committee on community safety has welcomed the newly launched crime-fighting unit in Gauteng launched by Premier Panyaza Lesfufi and MEC Faith Mazibuko.
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The launch will see 6 000 crime prevention wardens deployed in communities, especially in townships, informal settlements and hostels, to protect residents and fight crime.
“This much-needed crime prevention intervention is anticipated to reduce the scourge of crime in Gauteng that continues to rob residents of their right to freedom and peace,” said the chairperson of the portfolio committee on community safety, Bandile Masuku.
This initiative imitates what was historically known as street committees where community members organised themselves to provide safety and security in their neighbourhoods.
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“Unlike street committees, this initiative is government-led and funded. The committee is concerned that there seems to be an over-reliance on the government to provide peace and security in communities and little is done by residents to assist the government in fighting crime.
“The committee calls on Gauteng residents to take part in programmes such as community policing forums and augment the government’s efforts of effectively fighting crime,” said Masuku.
“The fight against crime can only be won if residents play a proactive and effective role by working with the police to resolve issues of crime and creating environments where everyone is and feels safe.”
He added the committee had noted with concern some residents who instead of welcoming and supporting the newly deployed crime prevention wardens took to social media and body shaming some.
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“The committee condemns this kind of behaviour as it degrades and humiliates others whose only crime is committing to serve and protecting their communities.
“Community members should welcome these wardens with open arms and support them in executing their responsibility of creating a safer Gauteng,” said Masuku.
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