Who do we turn to if even the top cops are rotten in our country?

EVER since Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the current KZN police commissioner, made startling claims about the unfortunate state of affairs of our country, I've been wondering where an ordinary citizen like myself is to run to for protection if the ruthless criminals are confronting one, as it was alleged that criminal gangs are controlling law enforcement agencies and their executive authorities.

- NHLANHLA SITHOLE | Greytown

One would remember the period of black-on-black violence, during the '80s following the assassination of Struggle icon, lawyer, and political activist Mama Victoria Mxenge.

Her killing led to the directive from the ANC in exile, which said law enforcement agencies and all criminal justice systems should be defied since they were all not to be trusted.

These government structures were perceived as compromised and the defenders of an oppressive state.

Therefore, it couldn't be taken as a legitimate state organ, and communities should protect themselves and not rely on untrustworthy police officers.