To combat crime effectively, the Gauteng Department of Community Safety has announced its plan to invest in cutting-edge technology and tools.
During MEC Faith Mazibuko’s budget vote speech, she revealed that the department would allocate a significant portion of its R2.7-billion budget towards various initiatives aimed at reducing crime in the province.
The department’s primary focus will be on addressing traffic-related crimes, with approximately R2 billion allocated to initiatives such as drunk driving operations, education and awareness campaigns, and the revival of road safety councils.
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This comprehensive approach aims to tackle the root causes of traffic-related offenses and promote safer roads in Gauteng.
Furthermore, the department plans to allocate over R200 million to strengthen police oversight programs and provide essential support to law enforcement agencies. These resources will enable law enforcement officials to enhance their capabilities and effectively combat crime in the province.
MEC Mazibuko emphasized the importance of improving police visibility and response time to criminal incidents.
As part of this effort, the department is in the process of recruiting 6,000 Crime Prevention Wardens, with over 4,000 wardens already deployed in various townships, informal settlements, and hostels (TISH) wards.
The wardens will work alongside law enforcement officials, augmenting their efforts and ensuring a quicker response to criminal incidents in hotspot areas.
This approach aligns with the department’s goal of implementing ward-based policing at a local level, ultimately enhancing community safety.
To equip law enforcement agencies with state-of-the-art resources the department has procured high-quality drones, surveillance cameras, high-powered patrol vehicles, and helicopters.
Two helicopters and 200 patrol vehicles have already been acquired, with plans to purchase 144 drones and 351 fully functional surveillance cameras.
These cutting-edge tools will significantly enhance the capabilities of law enforcement officials, providing them with real-time intelligence and improved surveillance capabilities. The implementation of these technologies across Gauteng’s TISH areas will contribute to a safer environment for residents.
The Gauteng Department of Community Safety recognizes the urgent need to address gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). To combat this pervasive issue, the department will allocate R65 million towards initiatives aimed at eliminating GBVF.
MEC Mazibuko highlighted the crucial role of GBVF brigades in amplifying the government’s efforts to combat this pandemic.
Additionally, the department plans to roll out e-Panic buttons and e-Panic Apps, benefiting close to 100,000 vulnerable families. These technological solutions will enable rapid responses to reported crime incidents, ultimately reducing GBVF cases.
As part of its commitment to leveraging technology for improved policing, the department will establish a Provincial Integrated Command Centre. This command center will serve as a hub for utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance crime prevention and response strategies in the province.
The Gauteng Department of Community Safety’s investment in high-tech crime-fighting tools demonstrates its dedication to creating a safer environment for all residents. Through the implementation of advanced resources and technology, law enforcement agencies will be better equipped to combat crime effectively.
