WATCH: Manguzi protesters demand action over cross border crime
Community up in arms over vehicles being hijacked, stolen and driven over the Mozambican border to be sold
ONGOING protests plague the Manguzi and Mbazwana areas as tension continues to build within the community near the Mozambique/Kosi Bay border post.
The community is once again calling on government officials to do something about cross-border crime.
According to reports, protests have been going on in the area since Sunday.
A number of people were arrested after police were forced to use rubber bullets to disperse crowds. This infuriated the community further, who then took to the streets, demanding that those arrested be released.
On Tuesday, KZN MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Mxolisi Kaunda, visited the area to restore calm.
ALSO READ: Cross-border crime addressed
According to KwaMsane police spokesperson, Captain Jabulani Mdletshe, all those arrested have since been released.
Demands include that government attend to the hijacking and smuggling of cars (specifically diesel 4x4s) across the
Mozambican border and that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) deal with SAPS jurisdiction issues. Police are of not authorised to chase criminals into Mozambique.
Kaunda is reported to have said he would escalate the issue to higher authorities to ensure the community’s demands are met.
The issue of crime at the Mozambican border is not a new one.
In March last year President Jacob Zuma was called in to restore calm at the uMhlabuyalingana Municipality.
A memorandum of grievances was handed over to the president, who promised he would look into them and come up with solutions.
ALSO READ: Cross-border theft sparks xenophobic threat in uMhlabuyalingana
Almost a year later the community still awaits government intervention.
It is alleged that Minister of Police, Fikile Mbalula, is en route to the area to speak to the community.
Motorists travelling towards the Kosi Bay Border should drive with caution and plan for extra travelling time.
Vote for your favourite business in Zululand here: BestofZululand.co.za
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
