Police cannot win this battle alone
The police cannot curb the illegal trade alone and requires the help of the community to rid the town of it for good.
The battle against drugs and prostitution is still ongoing with some believing that this war never will be won.
Community members have contacted the news on several occasions saying that it seems that the Krugersdorp SAPS is not really doing anything to curb the illegal trade that is taking over the city.
Colonel Luke Enslin, Commander of the Krugersdorp Cluster Drug Task Team, however, says that the police is doing its utmost to rid the streets of the illegal activities but that they are unable to win this battle without the community’s help.
“If society worked with us we would not have this problem – if they know where the drug dealers are they should tell us as we cannot arrest someone without proof that the person is in fact a drug dealer.”
He says that if the community stops feeding drug users’ habits then the illegal trade will not be profitable.
“When there is no demand for drugs and prostitution, there is no reason for them to remain in the city. They will go where they will find business.”
Enslin says the police is doing its bit, but that problems such as the illegal trade cannot be solved by the police alone.
“The police helps drug users to get rehabilitated. Captain Patrys Rautenbach personally assists with this and has walked the extra mile with these drug users. Every day they work with kids who have been caught up in drugs.
“In times like these, where are the family structure, church and social workers? We are working with many organisations, yet the community expects the police to do everything on its own.
“The local Community Police Forum (CPF) can be applauded for their hard work as they are working hand in hand with the police to find ways to curb this trade.”
He says that the prostitution trade also will not flourish if there is no demand for it.
“Usually business and married men use their services, so as long as they get business they will stay on the streets.”
Within a period of three years over 2 000 illegal immigrants have been deported back to their countries and more than 1 000 police dockets have been opened on drug dealers – many of whom the police single-handedly caught following their own investigations.
Enslin says that if the community wishes to help the police, they must use the right channels such as contacting them with information.
“If you suspect that police members are involved in the trade, we need substantial proof so that we can follow it up.”
Enslin reminds the community of the drug SMS line on 083 399 4544 where they can provide anonymous tip-offs.
Related article:
• Police taking hands in raiding Krugersdorp of drugs.
