The Justice Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster ministers recently held a media briefing to talk about the progress in fighting organized crime, including illegal mining, in the country. They wanted to keep the citizens informed about the work and operations carried out since 2022.
Crime has been a big problem for our country, affecting the lives of citizens, the economy, and the safety of our people. Criminals have been causing chaos in our communities, demanding protection fees and extorting money. They’ve also been disrupting the construction industry and instilling fear in our people.
But the government is taking action! They’re determined to destroy criminal syndicates and make sure that criminals are dealt with harshly. The goal is to create a safe and secure environment for everyone.
Operation Shanela
Since May 2023, the country has been taking a strong approach to reduce crime. Operation Shanela has led to the arrest of over 213,000 suspects for various crimes, including cash-in-transit robberies, extortion, and kidnappings. They’ve also confiscated illegal firearms and made significant progress in combating drug possession and trafficking.
Cash-in-Transit Heists and Robberies
The police have been making progress in confronting cash-in-transit crimes. They’ve arrested 75 wanted suspects and intercepted syndicates planning CIT robberies. Explosives, firearms, and stolen vehicles have been seized, making our communities safer.
Drugs
Law enforcement has been working hard to intercept drug trafficking at ports and routes. They’ve dismantled drug laboratories and seized large quantities of cocaine, worth millions of rand. The recent drug busts show the government’s commitment to fighting drug trafficking.
Extortion at Economic and Construction Sites
Violence and extortion at economic sites have been a concern, but the cluster has initiated interventions to ensure a safe and secure environment for economic stability and growth. They’ve arrested suspects linked to these extortions and have already convicted some of them.
Kidnappings for Ransom
Special teams have been dedicated to tracing and investigating kidnapping cases. They’ve arrested suspects and rescued victims, including an 18-year-old student and Portuguese businessmen. The fight against kidnapping is ongoing.
Anti-Gang Unit (AGU)
The Anti-Gang Unit has been deployed in provinces prone to gang violence, resulting in numerous arrests and cases.
Cross Border Crimes: Emanguzi Intervention
A task team has been deployed to prevent and combat cross-border vehicle smuggling, leading to the arrest of suspects and the recovery of stolen vehicles and firearms.
Combatting Illegal Mining and Related Crimes
Illegal mining has been a serious threat, leading to violent crimes and other organized criminal activities. The government has taken a strong stance against illegal mining, resulting in numerous arrests and convictions. They’ve also seized mining equipment and coal worth millions of rand.
Sealing of Illegal Mines and Shafts
There are thousands of derelict and ownerless mines in the country, and the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) is working to rehabilitate and close these mines.
Legislation and Regulation Framework Review
Laws are under review to strengthen law enforcement against illegal mining and associated crimes.
Goals and the Role of Provinces
Short, medium, and long-term goals have been set to stabilize the situation and deploy teams in problematic areas. Provincial Joints and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) are also involved in the fight against illegal mining.
In Conclusion
Communities play a crucial role in fighting organized crime and illegal mining. It’s important to report illegal activities and not assist criminals. Together, we can make our communities safer and combat crime effectively!