Cachalia Unimpressed With Western Cape’s Anti-Gang Plan, Calls For Stronger Action

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has voiced dissatisfaction with the Western Cape’s current agreement to combat gangsterism, saying it lacks the necessary detail and focus.

While addressing Parliament on Wednesday, Cachalia said the province’s approach was not specific enough to tackle what he called a deepening crisis of gang-related violence.

According to police data, gang-related murders have surged by 18% compared to the same period last year. Between April and September, the province recorded 490 gang-related deaths, including 23 victims under 18 years old and five children younger than 14.

National Police Present New Operational Plan to Parliament

During the session, the South African Police Service (SAPS) presented a national operational plan to curb gangsterism and restore order in affected communities.

Cachalia said the finer details of the plan could not be shared publicly, citing operational sensitivity.

“I believe in this plan. What is going to be critical is how it’s implemented over time and here, I think, public accountability will be important but also trust between communities and the police,” he stated.

The plan includes deploying additional police officers from other provinces and enhancing intelligence capabilities, which have previously been insufficient in dealing with organised crime networks.

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Cachalia stressed that the long-term success of the anti-gang strategy depends heavily on strengthening community policing.

“The resources are now being made available to assist the provincial commissioner in his efforts,” he added.

He emphasised that building trust between the police and communities will be essential to effectively dismantle gang structures and prevent further loss of life.

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