President Ramaphosa signs cooperation agreement to combat crime

President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a stern warning to criminals, saying law enforcement agencies are resolute in their mission to bring justice to those who terrorize communities and businesses. Speaking at the signing ceremony of the Cooperation Agreement to Combat Crime in Cape Town on Friday, the president stressed the government’s commitment to tackling the scourge of crime in the Western Cape.

“By signing this cooperation agreement, we are saying enough is enough. Our mothers and daughters here in the Cape are tired of living in fear. We will ensure that criminals are caught and removed from our streets,” the president asserted.

Ramaphosa referred to a recent incident in which four potential extortionists were killed in a shootout with police, underscoring the increased efforts to combat crime. He vowed to crack down on those involved in extortion, the so-called “construction mafia”, and gangsters, promising that they would be brought to justice.

The President assured residents and businesses that their concerns have been heard and that the government is actively working to address the challenges posed by crime. He acknowledged the devastating impact of gang violence on communities and the extortion practices that threaten businesses.

Ramaphosa praised the efforts of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies, noting the success of Operation Shanela, which has led to the arrest of more than 800,000 suspects since its launch in March 2023. He also highlighted the seizure of more than 3,000 illegal firearms in the Western Cape over the past year and the disruption of drug operations, including the interception of R252 million worth of cocaine in Stilbaai.

The recently signed cooperation agreement to combat crime will facilitate the sharing of technology, resources and information between law enforcement agencies, improve public policing and make the province safer. Ramaphosa stressed the importance of cooperation to stay ahead of criminals and urged residents to join forces with government to eradicate crime.

“We cannot win the war on crime without you. Let us work together to take back our communities from those who spread violence and discord. Together we can build a Cape Town, a Western Cape and a South Africa where there is no place for criminals,” President Ramaphosa concluded.