Deputy President Paul Mashatile says police should not hesitate to defend themselves when confronted by violent criminals. Mashatile was speaking during an oral question and answer session in the National Assembly.
This as, the past Sunday, police held a commemoration service for nearly 40 police officers who died at the hands of criminals, during the previous financial year. For the current financial year, already 21 police officers died in the line of duty. And extortion rackets are wreaking havoc in all sectors of society across the country.
Mashatile says government is determined to crack down on the increasing crime in the country. And he says police must be up to the task, even if legislation must be amended.
“I was told police feel their hands are tied and they are not able to act. So, I said let’s look at legislation, maybe it’s not like that. If that is how they interpret it, then they don’t act until criminals shoot and kill them.” He added that police should not be hesitant to use their firearms when confronted with violent criminals.
“I am told police are unsure what to do because they are not sure if they will appear before IPID if they shoot someone. I say no. You have to understand the situation you are in. These criminals are clear, they are killing. So, what are we analysing? We train you, we give you guns, use them.”
Mashatile says government is in the process of pouring more resources behind crime intelligence to relieve the crime situation. The fight against crime by police must be intel driven. We can’t put more boots on the ground but they go in the dark. We will put a lot of resources behind CI.”
Source: eNCA
In other news – Big Zulu’s diss track to be out tomorrow
Big Zulu is set to release a highly anticipated diss track tomorrow, sparking excitement and curiosity among fans.
Known for his hard-hitting lyrics and strong presence in the South African hip-hop scene, the track is expected to address ongoing feuds with fellow rappers. Read more
#Police #hesitate #defend #Paul #Mashatile
