MyPE

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Lack of specialised units threatens livelihoods of Eastern Cape farmers

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Dear MyPE

Stock theft has become out of control in Venterstad and the local police is doing nothing to protect farmers from a dangerous syndicate operating in the area.

On Friday, 12 April 2019, I was taken on a night patrol by local farmers, who in the absence of an honest and professional police service, have to patrol their farms until the early hours of the morning to protect their livelihoods.

I was joined by EC Premier Campaign Spokesperson for Agriculture and Land Reform, Annette Steyn.

Earlier in the day I also addressed members of the Burgersdorp community whilst unpacking the DA’s election manifesto and bringing the DA’s message of change.

Over the past two weeks more than 400 sheep have been stolen from farms in the Venterstad area. Although the thieves have been identified, the police will do nothing to act against them. In the past these criminals have threatened farmers with knives whilst the police stood by and watched.

It is unfair that farmers must work during the day and then stay awake all night to protect their stock.

An honest and professional police service with a specialised unit that focussed on stock theft should be ensuring the safety of these farmers and their stock.

The DA has launched a new rural safety plan which looks to massively boost personal on the ground by recruiting trained reservists. These reservists will do patrols and hold roadblocks to stop suspicious vehicles.

These criminals must be brought to justice and made to understand that there is still law and order in South Africa.

A DA government will build One South Africa for All by ensuring an honest and professional police service and creating specialised units aimed specifically at things like rural safety, sexual offenses, organised crime and missing persons.

Regards

John Steenhuisen
DA Team One South Africa Spokesperson for Crime

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