Pretoria – KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu has assured the families living at the Glebelands Residential Units in Umlazi that progress is being made to ensure safety and security in the area.
Speaking after a presentation of a comprehensive progress report at the provincial executive council meeting on Wednesday, the Premier said government has been monitoring the situation since its meeting with residents and all roleplayers on 28 September 2014, at Glebelands Stadium.
“An integrated approach involving government departments such as Community Safety and Liaison, SAPS, Human Settlements and eThekwini Municipality has ensured that we make progress in terms of the implementation of a turn-around strategy,” said Premier Mchunu.
Among the initiatives that have been concluded are the registration of about 11 380 tenants, upgrading of lighting in nine blocks, installation of CCTV cameras for phase 1. Perimeter fencing is expected to be completed in two months.
“Surveillance cameras and unshielded floodlights will deter criminal activities and intruders. This will also help residents to feel safer and will reduce incidents of theft and damage to property,” Premier Mchunu said.
The Premier said they have identified the illegal selling of beds as the root cause of murders and instability at Glebelands. He said the tenants’ registration will help stop the illegal selling of beds by individuals.
“Moving forward eThekwini Municipality, as the landlord, will be handling matters related to rent and occupation. Those who are found to be involved in the illegal selling of beds will face the full might of the law.
“As government we believe that we need to educate tenants about their rights, responsibilities and obligations. These initiatives will improve the living conditions of tenants and will protect them from unscrupulous and illegal landlords.”
He was concerned about the cases of murders which are still reported in the area. The Premier assured that government will continue to enforce the law.
“We have noted that our stringent security measures have forced criminal elements to commit some murders outside Glebelands. Our security machinery has been strengthened as we cannot afford to have an increasing number of widowers, widows and orphans as a result of these killings,” he said.
Meanwhile, resources for police have been allocated to do random searches, roadblocks and other special operations to root out crime related to Glebelands.
The Premier welcomed the cooperation from the national government and said the provincial government will work with all roleplayers, including chapter nine institutions such as the Human Rights Commission and the Public Protector to promote human rights and ensure peace and stability at Glebelands.
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