No progress made with identifying dedicated firearm destruction site in WC

Dear Editor

On 15 March, Western Cape SAPS briefed me in my capacity as Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Community Safety and confirmed that no progress has been made in identifying a suitable site in the province for the destruction of firearms. While we welcomed the commitment from the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Patekile, to initiate discussions with his national counterparts on this matter, there has been no update since then.

The efficient and timeous destruction of firearms remains crucial to fighting crime and preventing confiscated guns from making their way back onto our streets. For this reason, SAPS will be invited in the near future to the Standing Committee following their pledge to engage with the national government.

What became apparent during the meeting was something we already know: As provinces, we remain hamstrung by red tape and decision-making in Pretoria. The Provincial Commissioner affirmed that only the national government has the power and discretion to authorise a site to be constructed for the destruction of firearms.

Many reasons were given as to why it is highly unlikely that the national government would agree on such a decision. These include the need to follow due process in terms of current legislation, as well as there not being sufficient budgeting and staffing for a provincial site. This reveals that the national government doesn’t prioritise spending and policy that will help keep our communities safe from endemic crime levels.

MPP Reagen Allen says: “Not only do these reasons again show that resources are not properly allocated in capacitating our crime fighting efforts, but also that the national government does not have the intention to step in the right direction towards reform that will truly benefit residents.

It is also rather hypocritical to say that due process must be followed when the leadership in Pretoria cannot even facilitate the proper functioning of our police service. The most recent Police Needs and Priorities report highlights a worrying picture for police – one where officers aren’t sufficiently trained and equipped to properly carry out these duties.

We will continue our call for the Western Cape to be given its own dedicated destruction site so that further progress can be made in getting illegal firearms off our streets.”

Regards

Reagen Allen, MPP
DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Community Safety