S.Africa: Johannesburg/Pretoria: Lack of manpower, equipment, training sees decrease of 29,8% in police operations
The decrease of 29,8% in police operations in Gauteng during the first three months of 2021 could have a negative impact the province’s crime statistics. The decrease can be ascribed to a lack of manpower, equipment and training.
The Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lt.-Gen. Elias Mawela, announced the decrease in his quarterly review of the province’s crime statistics.
In the past, the police force along with other security authorities had been much more frequently involved in anti-crime operations aimed at apprehending offenders.
During such operations, motorists would be stopped to check whether their driver’s licences are valid and whether their vehicles are roadworthy. Vehicles were also searched for weapons, stolen goods and illicit firearms.
Between January and March 2020, 19 206 people were arrested for a variety of offences and during the same time period this year, that number decreased to 13 482.
The sharp drop in visible policing operations is undoubtedly a call for Lt.-Gen. Mawela to step in and ensure that the police service in Gauteng is managed effectively and efficiently.
Combating crime in Gauteng is of the utmost importance and, thus, the police must not limit its operations due to logistical problems.
In light of the rising number of murders and attempted murders in the province, it is imperative that the police force fulfils its constitutional duty to ensure the safety of the people of Gauteng.