KZN MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Mr Willies Mchunu said government is considering drastic measures to collect illegal firearms in the hands of civilians.
He was addressing thousands of Mankengane community in eShowe today, 22 Novemner 2011.
For years the community of this area has been experiencing faction fights that led to blood shed and disrupted school operations.
In the past, this area has seen some tensions between two tribal authorities namely the Mthethwa and Ncanana clans.
The MEC’s visit was a way to mend relations between the two authorities, the community and local leadership.
MEC Mchunu appealed to community and tribal authorities to assist in collecting illegal firearms.
“I appeal to all of you who were involved in the faction fights to surrender your firearms. Failure to do so will mean government must consider drastic measures to collect these firearms. Being in possession of an illegal firearm is a criminal offence and can not be tolerated. Today we are here to engage the community of Mangenganeni in a dialogue regarding peace processes in this area.
We came here last year while tensions were rife in the area and tried to resolve them and I am pleased to see an improvement”, said Mchunu.
Mchunu appealed to traditional authorities to facilitate a ritual to unite the local community.
He also announced a team from the Department of Community Safety and Liaison to facilitate interventions and work with the communities and the community structures to fight crime in the area.
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MEC Mchunu propose drastic measures to be taken against those in possession of illegal firearms
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