11 Killed in weekend bloodshed as experts debate policing power changes
In the wake of a horrific weekend in Cape Town that left 11 dead in mass shootings, experts caution that simply boosting Metro Police powers won't end the violence. What real changes are essential for community safety?
Between Saturday night and early Sunday morning, three mass shootings occurred in Cape Town’s townships of Khayelitsha, Langa, and Gugulethu, leaving 11 people dead and two wounded. The City of Cape Town is in a dispute with national government over expanding the powers of Metro Police officers to conduct criminal investigations.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia opposes the proposal, citing legal advice that aspects could be inconsistent with the Constitution. Former Western Cape Police Commissioner Dr Lennit Max states that while the City is justified in its concern about violent crime, expanded Metro Police powers alone will not stop the bloodshed.
He emphasizes the need for properly trained detectives, prosecutors, crime intelligence, and an integrated criminal justice system. Crime expert Calvin Rafadi agrees that Metro Police can assist in reactive policing but stresses the importance of proactive policing, such as identifying crime hotspots and gangs. Cape Forum supports the City’s plan to establish its own detective service and calls for a referendum on devolving policing powers to provincial and local governments.
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