The Inkatha Freedom Party in KwaZulu-Natal is deeply concerned about the state of lawlessness that is gripping the province after a shootout between police and alleged ATM bombers that left eight suspects and one police officer dead in Hammarsdale.
“While we appreciate the role of police in combating crime, the IFP is of the view that the police are reactive rather than proactive in its approach to crime prevention. It is clear that the easy access to firearms and other explosives makes it possible for criminals to plan and execute such criminal acts. Recently criminals have been targeting shopping centres and other busy hubs in KZN and in the process placing ordinary citizens in the line of fire. It must be of serious concern to all of us that the robbers who were attempting to blow up an ATM in Hammarsdale were armed with firearms, grenades and other explosives. We urge the police to investigate where these criminals obtained such weapons from. Surely it should not be so simple for people to get their hands on such deadly weapons to carry out their evil deeds,” said IFP Spokesperson on Community Safety & Liaison in the KZN Legislature, Mr Blessed Gwala MPL.
“We are deeply concerned about the safety of ordinary citizens who go about their lives in busy towns and cities while heavily armed criminals are planning deadly crimes. It is very sad that law enforcement personnel place themselves in the line of fire and risk their lives to keep us safe. We call on the MEC for Community Safety and Liaison, Mxolisi Kaunda to step up visible policing in all communities especially at busy shopping centres. It was through a tip off that police were able to foil the robbery but sadly one police officer lost his life in the shoot out. We send our condolences to the officer’s family, colleagues and all who are grieving at this time. We commend the police for their swift action and encourage them to continue with their efforts to rid our province of criminals”, concluded Mr Gwala.
Issued by:
Mr Blessed Gwala MPL
IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Community Safety and Liaison
078 290 5842
