Govt, business meet to discuss fight against crime

Charles Nqakula, the safety and security minister

One of the most important meetings between organs of State and civil society organisations - focusing exclusively on crime - was held in Tshwane today.

Top government ministers, directors-general of the crime prevention and security cluster and Big Business representatives, gathered to explore ways of dealing with crime in South Africa, particularly aggravated robberies.

The meeting comes amid a heightened sense of urgency and commitment in government's fight against crime. It follows a decision by President Thabo Mbeki and Cabinet on August 25, that Charles Nqakula, the safety and security minister, should chair the meeting.

Police facing staff retention problems
Nqakula said the purpose of the meeting was to discuss the role that could be played by the business sector in curbing crime.

He expressed gratitude at the business sector for coming on board with their expertise in the fight against crime.

Nqakula said that the biggest problem facing the SAPS was staff retention. He said trained police officers were being poached by other agencies that were able to offer them better salaries. However, Nqakula said that despite the problems faced police, they were still able to do their jobs.

Nqakula urged civil society to help police fight crime in instances when conventional policing methods were unable to yield results.

Nqakula praises public for helping police
The country has suffered 50 hijackings in the last 125 days. Nqakula said the police have been able to arrest some of the individuals involved in the crime.

He said from July 15, five people linked to 400 crimes have been arrested. The minister thanked the public for giving police information which led to some of the arrests.

On the question of the investigative capacity of the police, Nqakula said this was not strictly the only reason some cases got thrown out of court. “There are various circumstances that lead to cases being lost and we are addressing some of them… Some of the defence lawyers that we have are particularly good lawyers,” said Nqakula.

Criminal justice system under the spotlight
It was decided at the meeting that there will be an immediate review and improvement to the criminal justice system.

A leadership forum comprising government and private business leaders will be created. Current crime prevention initiatives by government departments will be reviewed to enhance performance.