[Thread 1/10] I welcome the Provincial Police Ombudsman's investigation into the SAPS's inefficiency in curbing the activities of drug houses in the province. This follows a request I made last month. By the end of June '21, there were a confirmed 1577 drug houses in the WC 
[2] We trust that this investigation will uncover the reasons why the SAPS is unable to prevent these illegal activities that are destroying our communities. The prevalence of drug houses in the province feeds organised crime, particularly in the form of gang violence.
[3] We must ensure that we remain one step ahead and root out every form of criminal activity in the province. Along with the perpetuation of organised crime – through illegal trade of drugs and ammunition – drug houses further threaten lives and livelihoods.
[4] Due to this investigation being of paramount importance, I will, in my capacity as Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Community Safety, be requesting regularly reports on the progress made by the Ombudsman.
[5] with 1 577 known drug houses operating in WC (53% in CT & 43% in rural towns, the prevalence of illicit drug trade in the province, let alone South Africa, further threatens the cohesion of communities - particularly those facing many socio-economic difficulties.
[6] the Ombudsman's investigation will be based on determining the reasons for the police are not being able to 1. Address the manufacturing & supply of illegal substances, in addition to the use, possession & dealing thereof; & 2. Terminate the operation of these premises
[7] Our Constitution places an obligation on the SAPS' to protect & secure residents by preventing, combatting and investigating criminal activities. In the WC, the Police Needs & Priorities reports, confirm the perpetual mismanagement and under-resourcing in the WC
[8] The success of this investigation will contribute immensely to our crimefighting efforts in order to keep residents safe. We support the Ombudsman's request and call on any persons or organisations to make submissions that will further aid the investigation.
[9] The Dep of Community Safety, as the lead in the Prov. Safety Plan, will continue to use a data-led approach to support SAPS through LEAP, & through the deployment of K9 units to curb drug trafficking, + drive violence prevention & developmental initiatives
[10] Submissions can be sent via email to ombudsman@wcpo.gov.za before 20 May 2022. Ps: Whilst you & I might not be a drug user, drugs affected us all, and is “everyone’s problem” #ShutDrugHouses
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
