Community Safety
With regard to gang murders reported at the Elsies River Police Station, (a) how many murders have taken place from March 2020 to date, (b) how many of these murders have been linked to alleged gang members or gang activities, (c) how many people have been arrested in relation to these crimes, (d) how many people have been convicted in relation to these crimes, (e) how many suspects are (i) currently on trial for alleged gang murders and (ii) awaiting trial for alleged (aa) gang murders and (bb) attempted murders, (f) of the suspects charged, how many cases have (i) failed to be prosecuted and (ii) been withdrawn since March 2020, (g) what were the reasons for the non-conviction, (h) how many suspects accused of murder have been released on bail and (i) what plans does the SAPS have in place to deal with gang murders at this station?
The reply of the South African Police Service (SAPS):
1. (a) 92 murders from March 2020 – March 2021
(b) 69
(c) 36 charged on 66 cases (69 counts)
(d) 2
(e) (i) (aa) 19
(bb) 33
(ii) (aa) 13
(bb) 15
(f) (i) 0
(ii) 18
(g) Not applicable. Zero (0) cases have been finalised in court.
(h) 0
(i) SAPS has a five pillar approach to dealing with gang murders that consists of:
- Intelligence gathering, analysis and coordination
- Prop-active and high visibility approach including LEAP deployments
- Combat and re-active approach (including the 72 hour activation plan)
- Detection including organised crime approach, opposition of bail and liaison with NPA
Communication and liaison
