The crime rate in South Africa continues to be a grave concern. Total crimes against persons have increased by more than 11% since December 2022. As of tomorrow, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi will unleash a new crime prevention force to protect citizens, especially in townships, informal settlements and hostels.

NEW CRIME PREVENTION UNIT

Addressing the media at Giant Stadium in Soshanguve, Tshwane, he said that the Crime Busting Unit would tackle crime which had crippled communities throughout the province and is set to help reduce youth unemployment.

INTRODUCING PANIC BUTTONS FOR CITIZENS

So far, he has implemented 6 000 e-panic buttons to be distributed to community patrollers and have tested their efficiency. The panic buttons will also be integrated into fixed street poles with CCTVs. He went on to say that his department has received several proposals for phone apps with a panic button to alert private security. "We will arm our residents with panic buttons that will be linked to our law enforcement agencies. These panic buttons will also be linked to our CCTVs and our new state-of-the-art integrated command centre. Whenever they feel threatened, every resident will press the button, and it will register at the office of our law enforcement agencies,' he confirmed.