Umhlali police spread paper thin
Nkobongo residents accused the station's officers of prioritising crimes in Ballito and Salt Rock over those in the township, and of using state vehicles for personal matters.
Umhlali police do not have the resources or manpower to adequately fight crime.
That is the perception among residents and the main concern raised at the crime imbizo at Nkobongo Community Hall on Saturday.
While the imbizo was not well attended, attendees said more police officers and vehicles were urgently needed at the precinct.
iLembe police commissioner, Major General Anthony Gopaul, acknowledged the station’s needs.
“New property development and population growth calls for more officers, and that will have to be looked at when allocating new officers for Umhlali.
“If we are not allocated more members, it will mean we are overworking the ones we have,” said Gopaul.
Nkobongo residents also accused the station’s officers of prioritising crimes in Ballito and Salt Rock over those in the township, and of using state vehicles for personal matters.
Resident Mbuso Mkhize claimed that internal politics at the station were affecting crime scene response times.
“As much as I acknowledge the lack of resources, I must stress that police vans seem to be available during the day, but not at night. Why are you not speaking up about those officers who will call in sick or only respond if a call comes from Ballito or Salt Rock,” asked Mkhize.
He suggested an anonymous complaints box for reporting misconduct by police officers.
Within Nkobongo, drug dealing, housebreaking and the high number of assault and murder cases were the main concerns.
Residents accused police officers of supporting and protecting the dealers, while the continuing presence and support of illegal taverns (despite being shut down repeatedly) was blamed for the high levels of violent crime.
In the majority of these cases drunkenness was a contributing factor.
Gopaul encouraged residents to report any misuse of state vehicles by taking photos and informing the authorities.
He reiterated that community well-being should be the primary focus of police vehicles, not personal use by officers.
Residents suggested hosting another imbizo next year to review progress made and provide feedback relating to the issues raised on Saturday.
Umhlali police precinct stretches from Upper Tongaat to Ballito, Shaka’s Head, Shakaskraal, Nkobongo, Tinley Manor, Etete and Cranbrook.
Follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube for breaking news
WhatsApp Broadcast Service: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BdGZsGJEAf04AXZ2yLWi8T
