KwaMhlanga - The newly opened Tweefontein police station in Mpumalanga, will go a long way in creating a much needed feeling of safety in the community.
Community members displayed their approval as Police Minister Nathi Mthetwa, along with Public Works Minister Thulas Nxesi, some Tweefontein residents and provincial government officials, opened the R20-million police station at Emzimdala village, near KwaMhlanga.
Most were in agreement that they were relieved to have a police station in their area, as they've had to previously travel far to report crime.
Sikhokozile Mahlangu said the new police station would make things a lot easier. She said in some instances, those arrested had to be transferred to Pretoria because of overcrowding at the KwaMhlanga station.
“… Now we have our own police station. It is really encouraging and brings a feeling of general safety," she said.
The station, which boasts 105 officers, will serve all the 14 sections of Tweefontein village – starting from section A to N.
Minister Mthethwa said government had prioritised building police stations in rural areas and townships, and ensuring they are correctly capacitated with improved systems and operations.
He encouraged community members to report crime of any nature to the police.
He said rape and crimes against women, children and the elderly needed urgent and uncompromised attention throughout the country.
"Rape and abuse is a huge challenge in the area and people should come forward and report these acts. It is an ongoing battle throughout the country," Minister Mthethwa said.
He said the police would continue to focus on mobilising society to “make life difficult for perpetrators of such crimes”.
Meanwhile, Ministers Nxesi and Mthethwa encouraged community members to help the police combat crime by making good use of the station.
"When in disagreement with government during protests, do not destroy this property or and kill the officers. They are here to serve you, the community," Minister Nxesi reiterated.
In his message of support, Community Police Forum (CPF) chairperson Kevin Pillay said that the CPF had a major role to play in the reduction of crime.
Pillay encouraged the community to join policing structures and to work with the police to rid the area of crime.
He added that in order for the province to maintain its good record of fighting crime, police must be supported by all stakeholders, including the CPF, through taking part in planned police programmes and operations. - SAnews.gov.za
