SA descends into 'lawlessness'

Organised criminal gangs are operating in economic investment hubs and tourist attraction suburbs

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

EXPERTS warn that South Africa might have lost its grip on law and order and may even have entered a state of lawlessness, with violent crime levels reaching alarming heights. Many cases brought before courts are withdrawn or dismissed, further undermining public confidence in the justice system.

Calvin Rafadi, crime expert and Research Associate at the University of Johannesburg, has warned that the level of crime reflects a serious deterioration in law and order. According to him, one of the major drivers of this surge is the widespread availability of illegal firearms in the hands of criminals who act with impunity.

He further highlighted the role of undocumented immigrants, some of whom collaborate with well-known criminal syndicates, often armed with automatic rifles and explosives.

"A worrying factor in Mzansi is that these organised criminal gangs are operating not only in townships and mining communities, but also in areas earmarked for economic investment and even in tourist attraction suburbs," Rafadi said.

"Law enforcement should have dismantled such networks a long time ago. Moreover, many gang member are well-known in their communities."

He stressed that the effective way to tackle organised crime is through the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (Poca).

By activating Poca against known gang members, specialised units such as the Asset Forfeiture Unit can strip syndicates of their illegally acquired assets.

"This approach weakens their financial power, disrupts recruitment, and prevents the glorification of gang leaders by vulnerable youth," Rafadi explained.

He also issued a stern warning to community members and families who assist criminal gangs.

Rafadi's research indicates that some individuals are paid or mobilised to side with gang members.

"Aiding and abetting organised crime is itself a serious offence," he cautioned.