The IFP is concerned about serious allegations that KwaMashu police are turning a blind eye to crime in their community.
We have been reliably informed by concerned community members that KwaMashu police are reluctant to investigate crimes, and do not follow up on the leads shared with them. A recent case is of that of a man who was found beheaded on Sunday morning in Thembalihle. No-one has been arrested, however the perpetrator is alleged to be known. Further, in 2012, an IFP councillor, Themba Xulu, was abducted in KwaMashu by men masquerading as police. He was later found dead, and to date, no-one has been arrested.
If the lack of police action reported proves to be true, the KwaMashu police are making a mockery of SAPS. Murder and robbery happen daily and these crimes will not stop unless drastic measures are taken by the police.
This further perpetuates the perception that KwaMashu police are partisan when dealing with crime, and that they favour a certain faction of the community, which includes criminals.
KwaMashu residents deserve competent police officers. Police cannot ignore reports of crime and fail to bring charges – especially when they are presented with overwhelming evidence. Police should enforce all laws equally.
The IFP implores the KZN Police Commissioner, Lt General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, to urgently investigate these allegations regarding the KwaMashu police. He must also consider rotating police officers from KwaMashu police station, to restore trust within the community. Drastic action must be taken against any police officer found to be wanting, partisan or in cahoots with criminals.
It is time to change course and rebuild trust.
The IFP believes that when a police service fails to protect and serve its community, the failure can almost always be traced back to SAPS leadership.