Motlanthe says South Africa’s drug war must target crime networks, not users

Former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe has spoken out against the country's approach to the drug war, arguing that it has caused more harm than good by failing to target the real criminals behind the illicit trade. During a gathering in Cape Town to discuss drug policy, Motlanthe, who chairs the Eastern and Southern Africa Commission on Drugs, questioned why enforcement efforts continue to focus on drug users rather than those who profit from the trade.

He emphasized that drug-related challenges and organised crime must be tackled as interconnected issues, as both have detrimental effects on countries and communities throughout the region.

Motlanthe pointed out that the strategic location of South Africa along major shipping routes in the Indian Ocean exposes the nation to the consequences of illicit drug trafficking. He highlighted that existing policies have often exacerbated the problems created by the illicit trade, rather than solving them. The commission he leads brings together government leaders, civil society members, public health experts, and law enforcement officials to develop evidence-based strategies to address drug-related challenges across the region.

At the event, Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia acknowledged the significant harm caused by drugs to families, communities, and institutions. He stated that these harms necessitate a robust response and called for honest assessments of what methods are effective and what are not. Cachalia stressed that law enforcement must hold those benefiting from illicit drug markets accountable through effective intelligence gathering, dedicated investigations, stronger law enforcement, and regional cooperation.

The gathering's discussions aim to contribute to a comprehensive reassessment of regional responses to drug use and trafficking. The focus is on implementing evidence-based policies and taking stronger action against the organised criminal networks that drive illicit drug trade.