The Democratic Alliance in Matlosana will write to the Minister of Police, Nathi Nhleko, to demand urgent action concerning the treatment of DA representatives at the Klerksdorp Police Station over the weekend.

On Saturday, 25 June, the DA marched from Pienaarsdorp to the Klerksdorp Police Station to highlight the scourge of drug abuse and to offer our solutions to combatting drug-related crimes. Former drug addicts and several community groups joined DA members marching peacefully to hand over a memorandum at the SAPS office. It was also a way of drawing attention to World International Drug Awareness Day, which was commemorated on Sunday.

We were told that the Station Commissioner will not be present to accept our memorandum and were ensured that someone in the station will accept on his behalf.

Upon arrival, no one was ready or willing to meet with us. We eventually managed to track down the Shift Commander, Captain Baloyi. She refused to acknowledge our presence, speak to us or accept our memorandum. An officer then forced me and other DA activists to leave the station, implying that our march was illegal.

The DA followed the correct procedures to arrange this march against drugs. Our permit was issued and the march was peaceful.  The memorandum was a confirmation of the DA’s commitment to support the police in their quest to get drug dealers off our streets.

We made several recommendations on ways of improving policing in areas where illicit drug-trafficking and drug-related crimes are increasing.  Our memo contained practical measures, such as increasing visible policing, establishing programmes to assist drug users and the immediate formation of a specialised anti-drug unit. Where we govern in the Western Cape, specialised anti-drug units are effectively making our communities safer.

The conduct of the SAPS members involved is disturbing.  We are disappointed that our members and supporters were treated like criminals and rudely chased away before being able to share their positive ideas and solutions to fighting drugs.

This incident however will not discourage the DA from continuing to fight for safer and healthier communities.

Issued by DA North West