The uMkhonto weSizwe Party is horrified and deeply saddened by the brutal killing
of 17 family members in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape. This tragedy reflects the devastating
state of safety and security in South Africa, particularly in rural areas where law
enforcement is often stretched thin. Our hearts go out to the families and
communities affected by this heinous crime, and we stand with them during this
difficult time.
The MK Party calls on the Minister of Police and the South African Police Service
(SAPS) to launch an immediate thorough investigation into this senseless act of
violence. This massacre demands swift and decisive action. The people of Lusikisiki
and surrounding communities deserve to feel safe in their homes, free from fear of
violence. We ask the Minister directly: What is SAPS doing to prevent such horrific
crimes from recurring? What specific steps are being taken to crack down on the
violent crime that has gripped the Eastern Cape and other regions?
South Africa’s latest crime statistics reveal an alarming increase in violent crime
across the country. Murder rates have surged by 3.1% nationally, while the Eastern
Cape remains a hotspot for violent crime, with its murder rate up by a shocking 7.5%.
Lusikisiki has not been immune to this wave of violence, with a notable spike in armed
robberies and gang-related activities over the past year.
Communities in Lusikisiki and surrounding rural areas have long been vulnerable to
crime due to inadequate police presence, poor infrastructure, and socio-economic
challenges. Yet, despite these challenges, there has been little done by the
government to provide meaningful support or intervention. SAPS must urgently
address these issues by increasing patrols, improving intelligence gathering, and
deploying specialised units to target known criminal syndicates operating in the area.
The MK Party firmly believes that tackling serious and violent crime requires both a
holistic approach and firm leadership. Under the guidance of President Jacob Zuma,
our party has always taken a firm stance against crime, prioritising the safety and
security of all South Africans. President Zuma has stated, “A country that cannot
protect its citizens is a country in crisis. We must act decisively against crime if we are
to build a better future for our people.”
We demand the immediate implementation of best-practice models, drawing on
successful strategies both locally and abroad. In South Africa, we’ve seen the success
of targeted crime-prevention programs in places like Operation Thunder in the
Western Cape, which reduced gang violence by deploying specialised units and
partnering with community stakeholders. Similar approaches must be adopted
nationwide.
On the African continent, countries such as Rwanda have effectively reduced violent
crime by fostering close cooperation between law enforcement and local
communities, integrating modern technology for intelligence gathering, and ensuring
accountability within the police force. Internationally, cities like New York and Bogotá
have utilised data-driven policing, community engagement, and rapid response
initiatives to successfully reduce violent crime rates.
As the official opposition, the MK Party is committed to working alongside
communities and law enforcement to implement these best practices. We will push
for:
- Increased police visibility and improved response times in rural and high-crime
areas like Lusikisiki. - Specialised task forces to address gang violence and organised crime.
- Collaborative efforts between police and local communities to rebuild trust
and improve intelligence-sharing. - Investment in crime-prevention technology, including surveillance systems
and data-driven policing tools. - National crime-prevention strategies that focus on addressing the root causes
of violence, including poverty, unemployment, and substance abuse.
Our party stands ready to govern and deliver on these promises. We urge the current
government to take immediate steps to bring justice to the families affected by the
Lusikisiki tragedy and prevent future incidents of such senseless violence.
The MK Party demands answers from the Minister of Police and the leadership of
SAPS. The people of South Africa cannot wait any longer. This tragedy in Lusikisiki
must serve as a wake-up call. The MK Party will continue to hold the government
accountable and demand action on behalf of all South Africans who deserve to live in
peace and security.
ENQUIRIES:
Nhlamulo Ndhlela
Head: Media and Communications
Contact mobile: 079 230 3345
Sipho Tyira
Manager: Media and Communications (Parliament)
Contact Mobile: 084 374 4316
