Northern Cape residents living in fear as crime escalates, Sapu demands action

The South African Policing Union (Sapu) in the Northern Cape is sounding the alarm over a disturbing surge in violent crimes across various towns in the province. Once considered relatively quiet and peaceful, the province is now grappling with a spike in criminal activity that has ordinary citizens living in fear.

A shocking incident in the Cassandra suburb of Kimberley saw a family robbed at gunpoint in their own home. Suspects forced their way in, tied the victims with cable ties, and made off with valuables and cash.

The towns of Postmasburg and Kathu, previously regarded as crime-free mining hubs, are now battling a rise in violent and organised crime, including hijackings, house break-ins, armed robberies, and vehicle thefts.

In Kuruman, part of the John Taolo Gaetsewe District, brutal murders committed with illegal firearms are becoming alarmingly frequent. Gun violence has escalated to a point where it's a primary method in heinous crimes, turning communities into war zones.

Sapu Northern Cape believes the situation has reached a crisis point. They're calling on the South African Police Service (SAPS) Management and Commanders to develop and implement urgent strategies to tackle the growing crime wave.

Proposed crime-fighting strategies include:

• Increased visibility: Boosting police presence in affected areas.
• Specialised crime intelligence: Dismantling criminal syndicates.
• Targeted operations: Focusing on areas like Postmasburg, Kathu, and Kuruman.
• Adequate resourcing: Ensuring police stations can respond promptly to crimes.

Sapu Northern Cape urges communities, stakeholders, local government, community leaders, civil society, business owners, and faith-based organisations to unite against crime. A coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach is key to reclaiming communities and restoring safety and justice.

"The safety of Northern Cape residents must be a top priority, and no member of the community should live under the constant threat of violence, and no criminal should feel emboldened to operate with impunity," Sapu Northern Cape emphasises.