Summary
Police Minister Firoz Cachalia says South African police cannot yet defeat gangs due to a lack of resources. Gang violence in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape is a major concern, contributing to high murder rates. President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised stronger law enforcement to address the issue.
Key Facts
- Police Minister Firoz Cachalia reported resource shortages in anti-gang operations.
- South Africa struggles with gang violence, particularly in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape.
- An average of 63 people were killed daily between April and September last year.
- An anti-gang unit was established in 2019 but gangs still pose a strong threat.
- About three million legal and an equal number of illegal firearms exist in South Africa.
- Recent violence included 118 deaths in Nelson Mandela Bay between August and December.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged more police action to combat gang violence.
