Human Settlements

11. Gang related incidents and related threats are a reality which my     

Department is faced with within our housing projects.  Unfortunately, some of the projects are being developed in the stronghold of gangs and have thus resulted in delays.

As soon as my department identifies an area for development in a gang stronghold, a partnership with the following role-players is formed:  SAPS, Metro Police, Law Enforcement, the Traffic Department, the contractor and if need be, Private Security Companies, and the local community.

The following steps are taken in conjunction with the relevant role players to act in the best interest of safety:

•     The Contractor will cordon off the construction site to prevent trespassing and to secure inventory and building supplies;

•     From the outset SAPS, Law Enforcement and Metro Police are instrumental in keeping law and order on site and the surrounding area;

•        The SAPS Intelligence team will provide information on gang activity in the area especially if it relates to the construction site and act accordingly;

•        Regular visible patrols will be conducted by SAPS, Law Enforcement and Metro Police;

•        Trespassing will not be tolerated on the construction site;

•        No vagrants will be allowed on the construction site;

•        Where groups are gathering close to the site they will be requested to disperse;

•        A Law Enforcement Officer will be on site whilst the construction is underway;

•        The Private Security Companies would assist with patrolling the construction site and the perimeter fence. They would work closely with SAPS, Law Enforcement and Metro Police;

•          If a gang related incident occurs on site, the contractor and staff will be escorted out of the area; and 

•        SAPS, Law Enforcement and Metro Police will continue to monitor the situation and restore law and order.