/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The DA in eThekwini notes the recent acknowledgement by the eThekwini Municipality of the urgent need for additional Metro Police presence in the Umhlanga area.

As from Monday, 04 September 2023, members of the Metro Police have been deployed on a permanent basis at the new satellite station. This comes after the DA continuously called for additional police resources in Umhlanga.

This is a 12-month pilot project that was encouraged by the scourge of by-law issues in Umhlanga. Due to the Northern Region station being based in KwaMashu there was a continuous delay in members getting to site especially because of a vehicle deficit.

This proactive response to the concerns raised by the DA is a testament to the power of a collective, whole-of-society approach, which involves business, civil society, and the government working together to address critical issues.

We firmly believe that the safety and well-being of our residents must always be the top priority. It is no longer acceptable for our citizens to live in constant fear and distress due to rising levels of lawlessness. We now look forward to witnessing increased action in cementing a working relationship with other key stakeholders in the area, effectively addressing all criminal elements within the suburb of Umhlanga.

While we applaud this significant step in the right direction, we call upon the eThekwini Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, and City Manager, Musa Mbhele, to take the concerns of residents residing near businesses that operate outside the legal parameters of their trading licenses to heart. Entertainment is a vital aspect of any community, as long as it is conducted within the bounds of the law and without adversely affecting the law-abiding, rate-paying citizens in close proximity.

The DA remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to create a safe and prosperous environment for the people of Umhlanga. We urge the Municipality to continue prioritizing the security and welfare of our community to ensure that the rule of law is upheld in all aspects of public life.

We thank the residents of Umhlanga for their vigilance and determination in pursuing a safer and more secure neighbourhood, and we stand united in our pursuit of a better future for all.

Issued by Councillor Nicole Bollman - DA eThekwini Councillor