eThekwini invests in smart policing solutions to enhance law enforcement
The body-worn and dashboard cameras are expected to enhance safety and security in eThekwini.
AS part of a concerted effort to enhance policing in eThekwini Municipality using technology, the Executive Committee (Exco) approved the acquisition of a smart policing solution for the Metro Police on February 27.
This innovative system aims to bolster the efficiency of law enforcement activities and streamline the successful prosecution of perpetrators of crime in the city.
Also read: eThekwini Municipality to introduce new load-shedding schedule
Key components of the smart policing solution include body-worn cameras, dash cameras in police vehicles, and the integration of Closed-Circuit Television infrastructure into the command centre.
Through the use of dashboards and body-worn cameras, metro police will be able to take action to deter criminal activities in the City of Durban.
The utilisation of smart gadgets by officers will ensure accurate issuance of fines and improve transparency, thereby fostering positive community relations.
This investment underscores the municipality’s commitment to using new modern technologies and methodologies to combat crime, including vandalism and infrastructure theft. Through this approach, the municipality aims to enhance policing performance and effectiveness.
Furthermore, integrated traffic enforcement solutions will be deployed at intersections to address traffic violations effectively.
According to the eThekwini Municipality, the smart policing platform is a transformative initiative aimed at modernising law enforcement practices and ensuring a safer and more secure environment for eThekwini residents.
“The municipality aims to rejuvenate its workforce and ensure a dynamic and motivated team capable of meeting the demands of modern policing through the Security Management Learnership Programme. The City’s Security Management Unit presented a report to Exco outlining the implementation of the programme, scheduled for this financial year,” the municipality said in a statement.
This initiative is an active step towards addressing the need for skilled security personnel while simultaneously creating employment opportunities.
“Exco, recognising the importance of recruiting competent security staff capable of responding effectively to evolving challenges, welcomed the programme. Through collaboration with the eThekwini Municipal Academy (EMA), the programme will provide industry-approved skills training tailored to attract and retain learners, thereby improving the overall security service provided by the Security Management Unit,” the statement read.
Also read: Mayor assures eThekwini residents of their safety
Applicants will undergo a rigorous selection process, including physical and written assessments, with female candidates receiving preference to address gender imbalances within the security sector.
A total of 72 applicants will be selected to participate in the 12-month programme, with a dedicated allocation of R1.5 million earmarked to provide stipends for participants.
“The programme reflects the municipality’s commitment to investing in the development of its workforce and enhancing public safety,” said the statement.
eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said by investing in the training and development of security personnel, the municipality seeks to create a safer, secure environment while offering employment opportunities to aspiring security professionals.
The municipality said the feasibility study and related investigations concerning the notices of motion regarding the in-sourcing of external cleaning services and security services, which were presented to Council last year, have been concluded.
“It has been determined that the feasibility of sourcing external cleaning services is not sustainable for the municipality under the current model. Recommendations arising from these investigations will be formally presented to Council later this week,” the municipality said in a statement.
Regarding the sourcing of security services, a comprehensive assessment has been undertaken. However, Exco recommends that the City manager promptly explores the implementation of a social enterprises model as proposed by eThekwini mayor Mxolisi Kaunda. A report on this matter is expected to be delivered to Council within two months.
For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram.
