The South African Police Service, the National Religious Leaders’ Forum (NRLF) and the Minister of Safety and Security, Charles Nqakula, met in Pretoria on Thursday to strengthen ties between the organisations in the fight against crime.
The meeting was also attended by the justice, crime prevention and security cluster of the government. The religious leaders were represented by Bishop Ivan Abrahams and Ashwin Trikamjee.
A spokesperson for the ministry of safety and security, Hangwani Mulaudzi, said that while the religious leaders were appreciative of being informed of the government interventions in the fight against crime, they were concerned about the lack of policy implementation at local police stations.
The minister assured the religious leaders that more experienced commanders will be deployed to address the problem.
He also urged all religious leaders to visit roadblocks during the holidays in support of the operations by the departments of transport and safety and security.
”As part of this partnership, the religious leaders will also visit 169 priority police stations with a view to strengthening the relationship between community based organisations and the police.”
About two weeks ago religious leaders met with President Thabo Mbeki, where it was agreed that the partnership between the government and the NRLF should be strengthened in the fight against crime.
Mulaudzi said another meeting will be held early next year to decide on ways in which the partnership could be strengthened and to provide feedback to Mbeki. — Sapa