With concerns circulating regarding unrest due to the forthcoming national elections, and the haunting memories of the July 2021 upheaval still lingering, is the Newcastle SAPS adequately equipped to counter any looming threats?
Recent apprehensions surrounding potential unrest during the elections have noted corporations and political figures echoing their worries.
Khumbudzo Ntshaveni, the State Security Minister, said in the past week that there are allegedly international campaigns aimed at destabilising the country, prompting the security cluster to intensify efforts in bolstering their capacity.
These concerns echo sentiments expressed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who alleged the involvement of foreign intelligence agencies seeking retaliation against South Africa for its lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Furthermore, national companies such as Sappi and Astral Foods have underscored their vigilance regarding potential social unrest as the country navigates through an election year marked by inadequate service delivery and soaring unemployment rates.
In addition, Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu expressed apprehensions about election security, particularly regarding the new political party, uMkhonto Wesizwe, supported by former South African President Jacob Zuma.
Moreover, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) released its investigative report on the July 2021 Unrest that engulfed KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. In its findings, SAHRC highlighted the ill-preparedness of the South African Police Service (SAPS) to address the orchestrated attacks.
“This might include insufficient training, equipment, or resources to effectively respond to the situation,” the Commission stated, emphasising that the lack of appropriate action in response to initial signs of unrest exacerbated criminal activities such as theft, arson, and property damage.
Amid mounting concerns about potential social upheaval during the upcoming elections, Newcastle SAPS Station Commander Brigadier Vassie Naidoo reassured the community of the local police force’s readiness.
“Newcastle SAPS have contingency plans in place. Additionally, the Provincial SAPS also have contingency plans for any event considered a national disaster,” he asserted, underscoring preparations to address potential social unrest during the elections.
“However, we don’t anticipate any issues on the ground in Newcastle at this point,” noted Brigadier Naidoo. Nevertheless, should any incident occur, he expressed confidence in Newcastle law enforcement’s ability to safeguard the community.
“All our stakeholders are actively engaged, gathering intelligence, and we have welcomed new recruits in recent months. The Newcastle Community Policing Forum (CPF) and security companies are also collaborating closely with the police to ensure stability and combat crime,” stated the Brigadier.
Furthermore, he highlighted the CPF’s regular patrols alongside the police within Newcastle, illustrating a joint effort between community members and law enforcement to combat crime. Nonetheless, Brigadier Naidoo stressed an issue that needed addressing within Newcastle.
“People are too scared to talk, and we need them to be actively involved with both the SAPS and CPF. This means coming forward with information on crime and potential threats,” stressed Brigadier Naidoo.
With this in mind, he reminded locals that Newcastle escaped the worst of the brunt in the July 2021 unrest due to residents making a united effort to keep the community safe, and he expected this trend to continue.
As Newcastle SAPS reassures the community of its safety measures against potential social unrest during the upcoming elections, public opinion on these concerns remains vital.
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