South Africa Considers Army Deployment in Gang-Hit Townships

Cape Town, South Africa is grappling with escalating crime and gang violence, prompting President Cyril Ramaphosa to announce the deployment of the army to several communities. Despite this significant measure, residents in areas like Tafelsig, a township in Mitchells Plain, express little hope that the military intervention will bring lasting change.

Mitchells Plain, located on the Cape Flats, experiences some of the highest rates of gang-related killings in South Africa. The area, a series of impoverished townships, contrasts sharply with the wealthy city center.

Life on the Cape Flats

Residents of Tafelsig live amidst constant threats of violence. Michael Jacobs, chairperson of a local community police forum, described a reality where shootings are commonplace, impacting daily life and hindering the well-being of children. Recent incidents include the deaths of four people, including a nine-month-old, in a drug den, and the murder of a Muslim cleric during Ramadan. Reports of further shootings, including an incident involving schoolgirls and a taxi driver, continue to surface.

Military Deployment and Criticism

Ramaphosa announced the deployment of the army to the Western Cape, Gauteng, and the Eastern Cape to combat gang violence and illegal mining. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia later added the Eastern Cape to the deployment schedule. This decision followed pressure from civil society groups and the Democratic Alliance (DA) party. However, critics argue the move is a superficial solution, questioning the wisdom of deploying the military in a country with a history of brutality and recent allegations of police corruption.

‘Do Our Lives Not Matter?’

Protests, such as the “Do Our Lives Not Matter?” demonstration in Gqeberha, highlight the desperation of communities demanding action. Gauteng and the Western Cape consistently rank high in organized crime statistics, while the Eastern Cape has recently seen a surge in killings linked to extortion syndicates. Police recently arrested 15,846 suspects nationwide, seizing firearms and ammunition.

Historical Context and Concerns

The deployment of the army raises concerns given South Africa’s history, particularly during the apartheid era when the military was used to suppress anti-apartheid activists. Jacobs, recalling his own arrest during a student protest in 1987, emphasizes that poverty, unemployment, and violent crime remain significant challenges. The Town Centre, once a thriving shopping mall, is now dominated by the drug trade, and many residents struggle to survive by scavenging for recyclable materials.

Analysts’ Perspectives

Analysts suggest addressing social issues, rather than solely relying on military intervention. Ryan Cummings, director of analysis at Signal Risk, described the deployment as “plugging a hole that is haemorrhaging.” Irvin Kinnes, an associate professor at the University of Cape Town’s Centre for Criminology, cautions against repeating past mistakes from previous army deployments, citing concerns about excessive force and a lack of cooperation between the military and police. He also notes that crime rates have decreased without military involvement.

Military Readiness and Police Concerns

Despite the president’s assurances that the military’s role will be supportive and limited, soldiers express reservations about working alongside the police. Ntsiki Shongo, a soldier deployed in previous operations, alleges that police corruption hinders effective law enforcement and that the military is often hampered by a lack of cooperation. He suggests allowing the military to operate independently to effectively combat crime.