Police Struggle to Curb Gang Violence Cachalia Says

South Africa is grappling with a persistent crime crisis, marked by high homicide rates and widespread gang violence. Police Minister Firoz Cachalia recently acknowledged that security forces are not yet capable of defeating criminal gangs.

Gang Violence and Organized Crime

Gang violence, alongside robberies, contributes significantly to the high number of murders in South Africa. The problem has become increasingly complex, particularly in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape provinces, necessitating new strategies beyond traditional policing methods. Minister Cachalia stated that criminal gangs are currently on a “killing spree” in these two provinces. He also noted the significant wealth and power wielded by these cartels, describing the situation as deeply concerning.

Recent Violence in Nelson Mandela Bay

Following a visit to Nelson Mandela Bay in the Eastern Cape, Cachalia addressed the issue of organized crime, including extortion rackets and gang violence. The region has experienced a surge in violence, with 118 people killed between August and December of last year, according to a local prevention group. Violence has continued into the new year, with approximately 40 deaths reported in January.

Firearms and Illegal Weapons

South Africa has a large number of legally held firearms, estimated at around three million. However, statistics suggest an equal or greater number of unlicensed weapons are in circulation within the country’s population of 63 million.

Recent Mass Shootings and Attacks

Last month, 11 people died in a mass shooting linked to illegal mining turf wars near Johannesburg. This incident followed another attack at the Saulsville Hostel in Pretoria, where 11 people, including a three-year-old child, were killed. In May of last year, eight customers were killed in a shooting at a tavern in Durban.

Government Response

President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged stronger law enforcement action and increased police deployment to address the escalating gang violence. Despite the establishment of an anti-gang unit in 2019, Cachalia expressed concern that the problem continues to grow, and that previous efforts have been an “ad hoc response.”