WHILE court officials call for more people to come forward and testify as witnesses, the names of those who do this are leaked back to the criminals involved.
That was one repeated allegation when concerns were raised at the recent uThungulu District crime summit, and great dissatisfaction was expressed by attendees at the low rate of arrests and convictions.
This was especially evident when the topic of drugs was discussed.
The non-arrest of known drug lords, continued trade being done at notorious houses and buildings, the part played by some meter taxi operators and the role of unlicensed taverns in the distribution of drugs prompted the complaints.
The urgent need for a local drug rehabilitation centre was also tabled.
Alleged failure of the court system to keep repeat offenders behind bars, ease of accused getting bail and poor docket presentation by detectives were blamed as factors favouring crime.
The allegation was made that ‘the justice system cares more about the offender than the victim’, but this was denied by a court official who said the rights of all people must be protected.
Illegals and crime
While opposed to xenophobia, the meeting agreed unchecked illegal entry opened the door for criminality and that many foreigners are known to be involved in drug deals and fraud scams.
Calls were also made for early interventions in taxi disputes, increased street lighting for rural areas, and a clampdown on drunk drivers and traffic offenders.
The meeting agreed on a broader approach to fighting crime that would include more role players such as schools, faith-based organisations, traditional leadership, the business sector and a fully functioning Community Policing Forum.
Representatives of the CPFs stated that without funding, their effectiveness was limited.
Crimes by and against youths was highlighted, with Mzingazi members pleading for sport and recreational facilities in their area.
