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THE community of Magogong village, Taung in conjunction with Taung Police Station convened to come up with strategic plans to combat crime. This came after unresolved crimes in the vicinity.

The meeting was held at Magogong Tribal Authority on Sunday. Taung 

Police Station representative, Captain Simon Jabetle said there were many unsolved cases reported at the police station. 

Jabetle said that could have been caused by lack of evidence or poor investigations from the police.

“We are aware of the escalating crime in Magogong village. The area and its vicinity are leading Taung as crime hot spot. The police also rely on the help of the local citizens and communities for case-making tips and information to make progress.

“Different methods are created to incentivize people coming forward and sharing valuable information. Our people need to assist police in dealing with crime. Some of the cases end up thrown out of court because they lack evidence,” he said.

He said witnesses play a pivotal role in many cases and assist police to combat crime. Jabetle added that in most instances, key witnesses refused to come forward with evidence.

“We urge our people to come forward with any key evidence to assist police in combating crime. Police websites offer crime hotline numbers and promise anonymity. For serious crimes, cash rewards may be offered. There were constantly house, business and armed robberies experienced in this area.

“We also decided to capacitate Community Policing Forums (CPFs) to assist the police. We also visited affected neighborhoods to distribute flyers and solicit information from locals. Despite these outreach efforts, many crimes still remain unsolved without adequate evidence,” Jabetle said.

Somali businessperson, Ayele Ayanto said crime is rife in Magogong village.

“I have a tuck-shop in the area and I was robbed at gunpoint last week Thursday. The criminals took undisclosed amount of money, airtime vouchers and groceries.  When we call the Taung Police Station, the police dropped the call if they realise that we are foreigners,” Ayanto said.

Another Somali, Ashebo Tumidaudi said: “We are not safe in this area. We need police to swiftly response to the situation. We sometimes have difficulties from police side. They will respond three days after the incident.”

Magogong Fight Against Crime leader, Tebogo Morweng said: “When neighbourhoods stand out against crime, they can improve the welfare of their community. Police and citizens must both understand the value of working collaboratively to solve difficult cases.”

“The neighbourhood patrol can change the living environment with direct police correspondence. This program will yield positive results by lowering criminal activity.”

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