Issued by: Gauteng Provincial Government
MEDIA STATEMENT BY MEC FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY JESSIE DUARTE ON PHOLA PARK
This morning I visited Phola Park in the company of the SAPS East Rand Area Commissioner General Don Aspeling and ANC MPL Mondli Gungubele. Tensions are still running high in the settlement and, although there has been no shooting since the attack yesterday morning, residents were fearful that gunmen might return after dark tonight.
At this point there are eight armoured vehicles patrolling the area, four of them SANDF vehicles and four from the SAPS. This presence will be maintained in Phola Park indefinitely. However, although Phola Park covers only 7sq km, it is difficult to police because it is so densely populated and irregularly planned.
The total absence of street lighting adds to the difficulties in securing Phola Park. We have approached the Greater Alberton Council to address this problem as a matter of urgency.
We are also appealing to members of the community to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. The restoration of security in Phola Park can best be served if residents cooperate closely with the police, by supplying them with reliable, detailed information.
During my visit I was informed that an Alberton magistrate had released a man allegedly linked to the conflict in Phola Park and facing charges of murder on bail of R10 000. I am told that the magistrate made his decision without even consulting the police investigating officer. This kind of action contributes to the tension and fear in the community as it leads residents to believe that the law and the justice system offer them little protection.
Jessie Duarte Gauteng MEC for Safety and Security
December 12 1995