By Lungile Ntimba
Gauteng has come on board to integrate resources with the different spheres of government to fight crime.
A cooperation agreement has been signed between Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, the provincial government and Gauteng’s three metros.
The Gauteng Legislature portfolio committee on community safety welcomed the signing of the deal on Friday, saying that it would boost the province’s fight against crime.
This signing comes after the Police Minister Senzo Mchunu addressed the National Assembly on Tuesday on the government’s efforts to tackle crime, including extortion which has increased across the country.
He said the agreements included an operational plan that would eventually be rolled out to all of the country’s metros.
It brings together the three spheres of government to work collaboratively in addressing crime prevention, law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
Committee chairperson Bandile Masuku said that the agreement marked a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and security of Gauteng’s residents.
“We believe that crime fighting initiatives like this can be strengthened and well capacitated to respond effectively to criminal activities and address the root cause of crime in Gauteng,” he said.
While the committee has welcomed this deal, it remained concerned about the delays in the launch of the Integrated Command Centre, which was aimed at ensuring safety and security of communities.
Masuku said the centre was conceptualised to serve as a central hub between law enforcement agencies, security services, community policing forums and emergency services to prevent crime.
The committee remained committed to holding the government accountable to ensure that the launch of the command centre was realised without any further delays to foster safer communities throughout Gauteng, Masuku said.
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