The IFP strongly condemns the neglect of government structures, especially old and dilapidated police satellite stations in the province. We therefore demand accountability from the MEC for Safety and Liaison in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Bheki Ntuli, about the refurbishment of the dilapidated satellite police stations located around the province.
The IFP learnt about the people’s dissatisfaction via social media, where they saw complaints about a picture of an old, shack-like police station. This left people in uproar as they voiced their concerns about its condition.
It is now 26 years into our democratic dispensation. How does the Safety and Community Liaison Department explain such a dehumanising structure – where a mere shack, draped in national and South African Police Service flags, can be referred to as a facility of the state? This place should be in a decent condition and be a worthy representation of the safety and security arm of the country. The structure is in the precinct of an erstwhile KwaZulu Government Department of Justice office and Ngwelezane Hospital. Not only does it tarnish South Africa’s image but exposes the inadequacy and callousness of the government of the day.
Police officials are expected to execute their duties without failure, yet they are expected to work in shacks, referred to as police stations.
We reliably learnt that there are quite a few other mobile police stations in this condition. This is serious neglect, and disrespectful towards our women and men in blue, and the communities they are serving.
Earlier this year, the IFP called for the construction of more satellite police stations to ensure police visibility but these dilapidated structures are definitely not welcome.
We hope the Department concerned will see the need to act urgently and replace these inhumane structures.
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Contact:
Mr Blessed Gwala
IFP Spokesperson for Safety and Community Liaison
Contact number: 078 290 5842
