KWAZULU-NATAL MEC for community safety and liaison Willies Mchunu has called on residents to compile a database of all alleged criminals in their areas and to submit it to the police for investigation.

KWAZULU-NATAL MEC for community safety and liaison Willies Mchunu has called on residents to compile a database of all alleged criminals in their areas and to submit it to the police for investigation.

Mchunu was addressing top cops and community crime fighters in Imbali township, Pietermaritzburg' on Saturday.

This was his first interaction with all SAPS station commissioners, community policing forum chairpersons and coordinators from 183 police stations in the province.

"I hate criminals . and, I also hate crime," Mchunu said.

"It hurts to be a victim of crime. After experiencing crime and its aftermath I have come to the conclusion that I not only hate crime but I in fact hate criminals."

Mchunu said the fight against crime and criminals required police officers, politicians and community activists with no blemishes.

"It is inconceivable that a police officer or a member of CPF should 'flirt' with criminals at night and during the day shout anti-crime rhetoric," he said.

"Such individuals must be exposed, isolated and thrown into jail without delay."

Mchunu said to win the war against crime a clear target must be set, including drawing up a list of known "alleged" criminals in the communities.

"Such a list must be given to the police to investigate and ensure successful arrests and prosecution."

The provincial department of community safety and liaison, including its political head, are there to closely monitor the police investigations of these "alleged" criminals and where appropriate effect arrests."

Mchunu said police would report their progress to everyone who reports a crime and to the victims of crime.

"We need to know the progress of police investigations or lack thereof," he urged.

"As part of our duty we will ensure closer monitoring of police work in the province.

"We urge CPF's and all communities to partner with us."

On the shoot-to-kill message Mchunu said they were not advocating a trigger-happy force.

"Our message is clear. While in pursuance of their duties police cannot ask criminals, 'Hey you, why are you drawing a gun on me'. It just cannot be, they have to defend themselves," he said.