Violent crime and gang activity have been escalating in Osizweni, particularly among youth-driven gangs that have been causing chaos for several years. However, there are promising developments in the Amajuba District as efforts to combat this crime are intensifying.
This development follows a visit by KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, who travelled to Osizweni on Saturday, 23 November 2024, to lead a Crime Fighting Imbizo.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has raised alarms over the increasing levels of gangsterism, drug abuse, and violent crimes in Osizweni, Madadeni, Utrecht, and Dannhauser. While gangsterism initially affected Osizweni, it has since spread to other areas, terrorising communities and creating a climate of fear.
Despite these challenges, the Provincial Government has highlighted the dedicated work of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, voluntary crime-fighting structures, and law enforcement agencies. These bodies have been working relentlessly to reduce crime and improve living conditions for residents. However, the problem still persists.
Moreover, during the Imbizo, Premier Ntuli outlined a series of strategic measures to intensify crime-fighting efforts in the region. These strategies include conducting regular, unannounced raids in crime hotspots, strengthening the collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community structures, and boosting the visibility of law enforcement in high-crime areas. Furthermore, the Premier highlighted the importance of addressing socio-economic factors such as youth unemployment, which often fuel criminal activities.
Premier Ntuli also called on community members to play an active role in the fight against crime. He urged residents to report criminal activities and engage with crime prevention initiatives, stressing the need for collective action to create safer communities.
“This government remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all our citizens. Together, we will build safer, crime-free communities,” Premier Ntuli said, emphasising the importance of unity in the fight against crime.
In parallel with the provincial government’s efforts, the Newcastle Municipality has also been actively addressing crime in the city.
According to the Municipality’s Communications Unit, Newcastle’s Mayor, Councillor Dube, has led several initiatives aimed at combating gangsterism and improving safety for all residents.
Among the interventions led by Mayor Dube are the following:
- Taxi Violence Intervention: A cooperation agreement was signed with five taxi associations to resolve the ongoing taxi violence issues.
- Community Engagement: Mayor Dube has been engaging directly with the community, raising awareness about the dangers of gangsterism and the impact of violent crime.
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Mayor Dube has worked closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that criminal offenders are held accountable for their actions.
It is important to note that this is not the first time government officials have visited Newcastle to address the serious issue of gangsterism and violent crime. In 2020, former Police Minister Bheki Cele also visited the area to engage with local authorities and discuss solutions to the persistent crime problem. However, the problem continued to grow.
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With both the provincial government and the Newcastle Municipality taking steps to address these challenges head-on, we ask: What are your thoughts on the intensified efforts to combat crime in the Amajuba District? Do you think they will work or not?
Share your views in the comment section below.
