MKP condemns the senseless killing of 17 family members in Lusikisiki and demands urgent action from the SAPS and government

29 September 2024

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party is horrified and deeply saddened by the brutal killing of 17 family members in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape. This tragedy reflects the devastating state of safety and security in South Africa, particularly in rural areas where law enforcement is often stretched thin. Our hearts go out to the families and communities affected by this heinous crime, and we stand with them during this difficult time.

The MK Party calls on the Minister of Police and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to launch an immediate thorough investigation into this senseless act of violence. This massacre demands swift and decisive action. The people of Lusikisiki and surrounding communities deserve to feel safe in their homes, free from fear of violence. We ask the Minister directly: What is SAPS doing to prevent such horrific crimes from recurring? What specific steps are being taken to crack down on the violent crime that has gripped the Eastern Cape and other regions?

South Africa's latest crime statistics reveal an alarming increase in violent crime across the country. Murder rates have surged by 3.1% nationally, while the Eastern Cape remains a hotspot for violent crime, with its murder rate up by a shocking 7.5%.

Lusikisiki has not been immune to this wave of violence, with a notable spike in armed robberies and gang-related activities over the past year.

Communities in Lusikisiki and surrounding rural areas have long been vulnerable to crime due to inadequate police presence, poor infrastructure, and socio-economic challenges. Yet, despite these challenges, there has been little done by the government to provide meaningful support or intervention. SAPS must urgently address these issues by increasing patrols, improving intelligence gathering, and deploying specialised units to target known criminal syndicates operating in the area.

The MK Party firmly believes that tackling serious and violent crime requires both a holistic approach and firm leadership. Under the guidance of President Jacob Zuma, our party has always taken a firm stance against crime, prioritising the safety and security of all South Africans. President Zuma has stated, "A country that cannot protect its citizens is a country in crisis. We must act decisively against crime if we are to build a better future for our people."

We demand the immediate implementation of best-practice models, drawing on successful strategies both locally and abroad. In South Africa, we've seen the success of targeted crime-prevention programs in places like Operation Thunder in the Western Cape, which reduced gang violence by deploying specialised units and partnering with community stakeholders. Similar approaches must be adopted nationwide.

On the African continent, countries such as Rwanda have effectively reduced violent crime by fostering close cooperation between law enforcement and local communities, integrating modern technology for intelligence gathering, and ensuring accountability within the police force. Internationally, cities like New York and Bogotå have utilised data-driven policing, community engagement, and rapid response initiatives to successfully reduce violent crime rates.

As the official opposition, the MK Party is committed to working alongside communities and law enforcement to implement these best practices. We will push for:

1. Increased police visibility and improved response times in rural and high-crime areas like Lusikisiki.
2. Specialised task forces to address gang violence and organised crime.
3. Collaborative efforts between police and local communities to rebuild trust and improve intelligence-sharing.
4. Investment in crime-prevention technology, including surveillance systems and data-driven policing tools.
5. National crime-prevention strategies that focus on addressing the root causes of violence, including poverty, unemployment, and substance abuse.

Our party stands ready to govern and deliver on these promises. We urge the current government to take immediate steps to bring justice to the families affected by the Lusikisiki tragedy and prevent future incidents of such senseless violence.

Issued by MKP, 29 September 2024