“They failed us”: Gang violence victims demand justice from Parliament

Two of her sons were killed by gang violence, leaving Jane Douglas deeply disappointed and frustrated with the police. She recounted the loss of her 24-year-old son, Lizario, and her 26-year-old eldest son, Triston, at the hands of gangsters. Douglas expressed her pain and sorrow that her children did not receive justice, as there were no court dates set for their families.

She emphasized the importance of parents keeping a close eye on their children and their friends. Another victim, Louisa Solomon, shared her son's redemption story, only to have him brutally murdered. Solomon, proud of her son's achievements, pleaded for justice and protection against gangsterism. Mark Shaw, from the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, emphasized the need to de-politicize the fight against gangsterism and highlighted the increase in gang violence since 2020.

He spoke about the sophisticated methods used by gang leaders to launder their finances and the significant profits involved. Various speakers called for more youth-focused programs and support for community police forums and neighbourhood watches. Police station commanders in Manenberg, Nyanga, and Mitchells Plain also testified about the main issues of drugs, firearms, and extortion.

The committee's chairperson, Ian Cameron, acknowledged that while temporary calm may be achieved, crime persists in some areas. He stressed that the state must protect communities and investigate the perpetrators, ensuring proper prosecution, removal of illegal firearms, and prevention of new gang recruitment. Cameron emphasized that gang violence is not solely a police issue, as various departments can play a significant role in addressing the problem.

He promised further community engagements and site visits as part of the inquiry, along with joint meetings with relevant departments and portfolio committees.