IFP PRESS STATEMENT BY: 
MR VELAPHI NDLOVU MP
IFP SAFETY AND SECURITY SPOKESPERSON

10th July 2008

The Inkatha Freedom Party remains concerned about the high levels of crime within the public transport system, especially within the taxi industry, said Mr Velaphi Ndlovu, the IFP's Safety and Security Spokesperson today. 

Mr Velaphi Ndlovu said: "It concerns the IFP that 14 years into democracy, the public transport system in South Africa is still not safe and reliable to use. In fact, our transport network is such an unsafe environment, commuters fear for their lives on a regular basis. 

"The Inkatha Freedom Party believes that it is high time for the SAPS to establish a high level multi-agency task team to deal with transport violence, especially within the taxi industry.   

"The task team must include the police, intelligence services and other role players in the criminal justice system. They should infiltrate the taxi industry and arrest the criminals who have made crime and murder their business.  

"The protection of the citizens of this country lies primarily with the SAPS and they should start showing commitment to this cause. The IFP strongly believes that we must restore respect for law and order.  

In conclusion Mr Ndlovu commented: "The pre-eminent responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. One could therefore argue with conviction that the creation of a safer transport industry must be a priority. The IFP believes that human life comes first.

Umuntu umuntu ngabantu." 

 
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr Velaphi Ndlovu MP: 083 625 0803
IFP Safety and Security Spokesperson 
Liezl van der Merwe: 083 611 7470
IFP Media Officer