PRETORIA– Cabinet has reassured South Africans that fighting crime is a top priority and that government will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure a safe and secure environment for all citizens.
This follows the arrest of 19 suspects in connection with incidents at shopping malls, retail stores and mosques.
This includes the arrest of three suspects in relation to incendiary devices in the Durban area and Verulam Mosque. All the suspects are expected to face charges including murder and attempted murder, and contravening the Explosives Act.
Cabinet commended law enforcement agencies, involving the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, in carrying out an intensive multi-disciplinary investigation relating to the incidents.
Cabinet has also welcomed the sentencing of the man, commonly referred to as the Springs Monster, who was sentenced to 35 years in jail for the attempted murder of his son, child abuse and neglect, as well as using and dealing in drugs.
Communications Minister Nomvula Mokonyane acknowledged that gender-based violence remains a serious challenge in society, as demonstrated by the recent rape of a minor at a Dros restaurant in Silverton.
Cabinet calls on law enforcement authorities to leave no stone unturned in prosecuting perpetrators of these heinous crimes. It further calls on all of us to work together in stopping the violation of the rights of children and the most vulnerable members of our society, Mokonyane said during a Post-Cabinet media briefing held in Cape Town on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Cabinet has called on the Westbury community and all communities to work with the police in ensuring that they root out acts of criminality, drugs and gangsters in their areas.
Mokonyane said Cabinet welcomed the intervention in Westbury by Police Minister Bheki Cele, which is part of the broader strategy to fight the scourge of drugs and gang-related violence in the area.
The intervention includes the deployment of the tactical response team and a greater visible policing presence. Importantly, there will also be an investigation into allegations of corruption at the Westbury police station, Mokonyane said.
Source: NAM NEWS NETWORK