The Gauteng Provincial Legislature has launched a crime-fighting initiative to reduce crime in Gauteng. The industry is led by the Premier of Gauteng, Panyaza Lesfufi, and the MEC for Community Safety, Faith Mazibuko. The newly launched crime-fighting unit plans to deploy 6,000 Crime Prevention Wardens in townships, informal settlements, and hostels to protect residents and fight crime.
Committee’s Response
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has welcomed the initiative. However, the Committee expressed concern that there is an over-reliance on the government to provide community peace and security. The Committee urged residents of Gauteng to organize themselves and participate in programs such as Community Policing Forums to augment government efforts to fight crime effectively.
Historical Comparison
The initiative is a government-led and funded program similar to what was historically known as Street Committees. Community members organized themselves in Street Committees to provide neighborhood safety and security. The Committee is concerned that residents are doing little to assist the government in fighting crime.
Call to Action
The Committee noted that the fight against crime in our communities can only be won if residents are more proactive and influential in working with the police. Therefore, the Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety calls on residents of Gauteng to organize themselves and participate in programs such as Community Policing Forums to augment government efforts.
Support for Crime Prevention Wardens
The Committee expressed concern that some residents body-shamed the newly deployed Crime Prevention Wardens on social media. The Committee strongly condemns this behavior as it only serves to degrade and humiliate others whose only crime is committing to serve and protect their communities. Instead, community members should welcome the Crime Prevention Wardens with open arms and provide them with the necessary support to create a safer Gauteng.
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s crime-fighting initiative is a much-needed intervention to reduce the scourge of crime in the province. However, the Committee strongly urges the residents of Gauteng to actively assist the government in fighting corruption and welcome the newly deployed Crime Prevention Wardens with open arms. It is time for residents to work together with the government to create a safer Gauteng for all.
