INFORMAL settlements need to be developed to reduce crime, President Jacob Zuma said in Thembisa, Ekurhuleni, yesterday.
INFORMAL settlements need to be developed to reduce crime, President Jacob Zuma said in Thembisa, Ekurhuleni, yesterday.
"Informal settlements are where many problems are. If we can develop them there'll be a big percentage drop in crime," Zuma told a group of journalists outside the Thembisa police station after his unannounced visit to the area.
Zuma, accompanied by ANC spokesperson Jesse Duarte and Minister of Police Nathi Mthethwa, held a meeting with the station commissioner for about 30 minutes.
When Zuma arrived, the commissioner, George Manganya, was nowhere to be found. He arrived minutes later in civilian clothes. When asked about what transpired in the meeting, Zuma said he was provided with crime statistics.
"The commissioner indicated that they're working very hard and have the backing of the CPF."
Also discussed was the need for additional satellite police stations.
Earlier, Zuma had visited residents of Madelakufa, who complained about incompetent councillors, unhealthy living conditions, lack of clean drinking water, electricity as well as sanitation.
Zuma said the fact that councillors were not addressing these problems almost 14 years since the informal settlement came into being, was a serious problem. He intended raising this with the ANC provincially and regionally. - Sapa