14 Jun 2017

Residents of Boikhutso ward in Francistown South have complained about the increasing crime rate in their area.

They expressed these concerns during a Kgotla meeting addressed by area MP, Mr Wynter Mmolotsi on June 12.

One of the residents, Ms Rosinah Ntekola said the shopping complex in the area had turned into a hub for various crimes such as theft, stabbings and murders, adding that they lived in fear.

Ms Ntekola further commented that of late policing clusters in their ward had been stopped, which contributed highly to the increased crime rate.“Clusters used to be helpful, now we fear for our lives and those of our loved ones,” she said.

Another resident, Ms Patricia Gaolekwe added that in addition to the high crime rate, the bars at the complex were noisy and disturbed their sleep.

She noted that residents had complained about the noise several times, but their complaints were not acted upon.

Responding to their pleas, Assistant Supt. Ruth Sechele of Kutlwano Police Station said they were aware of the high crime rate at Bokowe shopping complex.

She added that they were not aware that community policing clusters in their ward had been stopped.

Assistant Supt Sechele, however explained to residents that the clusters were made up of residents and police officers and further informed residents that it was upon them to inform the police about this development. 

Commenting on increased crime rate, MP Mmolotsi advised land owners to request identification of tenants prior to renting out houses to them.

Responding to Ms Chedza Dambe’s suggestion of constructing an overhead bridge from Boikhutso ward to Phase 4 over the dual interchange, Mr Mmolotsi said an overhead bridge requires a lot of capital, adding that there had to be a clear source of funding for the proposed project.

He further suggested that businesses could be approached for financial assistance as it was evident that government alone could not afford to finance the project. ENDS