Stopping the Senseless Violence

Key Takeaways:

• Residents of Belhar believe that the police are losing the fight against gun violence on the Cape Flats.
• There have been multiple shootings in various areas, including Hanover Park, Philippi, Ottery, Bonteheuwel, Elsies River, and Facreton.
• Community leaders are calling for the deployment of the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) to assist the police.
• Western Cape Minister for Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais opposes the deployment of the SANDF, citing concerns about their training and potential for disproportionate use of force.
• The police and other law enforcement agencies have intensified targeted operations against criminal gangs, resulting in the confiscation of significant quantities of illegal firearms and ammunition.

Introduction to the Crisis
The Cape Flats have been plagued by gun violence, with a recent bloody Monday leaving residents of Belhar convinced that the police are losing the fight against crime. Throughout the day, shots were fired in various areas, including Hanover Park, Philippi, Ottery, Bonteheuwel, Elsies River, and Facreton. The violence has led to a sense of desperation among community members, who are calling for urgent action to be taken to address the crisis. In Manenberg, a 36-year-old man affiliated with the Hard Livings gang was gunned down, while in Bo-Kaap, a 22-year-old man was shot dead in broad daylight.

Community Calls for SANDF Deployment
Community leaders in Belhar, such as Gershwin Cloete, are advocating for the deployment of the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) to assist the police in stabilizing the communities. Cloete explained that the police are unable to handle the capacity to enforce the law and stabilize the communities, and that the SANDF’s involvement is necessary to bring an end to the violence. He emphasized that the deployment would not be a permanent solution but would provide a temporary measure to address the crisis. The community is tired of the daily shootings and feels that their voices are not being heard, particularly in predominantly colored areas where the mass shootings are taking place.

Opposition to SANDF Deployment
However, not everyone agrees that deploying the SANDF is the solution to the problem. Western Cape Minister for Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais is opposed to the idea, citing concerns about the SANDF’s training and potential for disproportionate use of force. Marais believes that the SANDF is trained for combat, not for civil law enforcement or community policing, and that their involvement could damage the already fragile trust between the government and communities. She also pointed out that the police, together with other law enforcement partners, have intensified targeted operations against criminal gangs, resulting in the confiscation of significant quantities of illegal firearms and ammunition.

Alternative Solutions
Marais emphasized that the problem of gangsterism and killings is deeply rooted and requires a more nuanced approach. She expressed encouragement at the undertaking of the Acting Minister of Police, Prof. Cachalia, who has committed to working closely with the Western Cape Government and the people of the province to address the issue. Marais believes that with strengthened collaboration, improved resourcing, and community partnership, sustainable progress is possible. The police and other law enforcement agencies have already made efforts to address the crisis, and Marais is confident that these efforts will yield positive results.

The Way Forward
The situation on the Cape Flats is complex and multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of the violence. While the deployment of the SANDF may be a temporary solution, it is not a long-term fix. The government, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders must work together to develop a strategy that addresses the systemic issues driving the violence. This includes improving resources, enhancing community partnership, and providing support to affected communities. Ultimately, the goal is to create a safer and more stable environment for residents of the Cape Flats, and it will require a sustained effort from all stakeholders to achieve this goal.