By Zohra Teke
“We cannot address crime without addressing the social problems leading to it.”
These are the words of KZN Police Commissioner, General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in response to the recent spate of violent crime in Amaoti, north of Durban.
Six people were killed, including two suspected of being involved in a shooting spree over the weekend. But, Mkhwanazi says the response cannot be a knee-jerk reaction that will not address the root causes.
“We are setting up a police station thanks to a sponsorship from a private sponsor. We are also introducing cameras in that community. The area falls under Inanda, but their nearest police station is 5-10kms away, which becomes a challenge when immediate assistance is needed.
“Inanda is doing their best to assist the community, but we must look at the bigger picture. That community has major challenges. Very high unemployment, kids not going to school, a community that is a fertile ground for criminals.
“We need all departments to work together and come up with a social solution. Addressing crime without solving the issues of unemployment, school attendance and living conditions won’t provide a long term solution to the community’s problems,” he said.
Political leaders and the commissioner were forced to step in following 3 days of killings, protests, and community outrage. Calls for the army to be brought in have since simmered and tensions eased after news broke that two of those killed were suspected crime leaders who had been terrorising the community.
Amaoti is considered the largest informal settlement in KwaZulu-Natal.
It has amongst the highest unemployment, poverty, and orphans and vulnerable children.
According to non-profit organisations working in that area, more than 60% of children living on the streets of Durban come from Amaoti.
The area is also home to former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede.
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