Pretoria: Acting Police Minister, Prof Firoz Cachalia, emphasized the urgent need for tackling organised crime and its associated corruption as a national priority.

According to South African Government News Agency, Cachalia highlighted the necessity for a focused and specialist approach, advocating for closer collaboration between the police, prosecutors, financial regulators, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), and the private sector. Speaking at the release of the crime statistics for the first two quarters of 2025/26 in Pretoria, he stressed the importance of tracing money stolen through corruption and hitting criminals where it hurts-financially.

Cachalia underscored the need for fast and effective prosecutions, alongside strong witness protection, to ensure that investigations lead to convictions. He pointed out that combatting gang violence requires uncompromising policing and effective investigation and prosecution to ensure that gang lords are held accountable for the societal harm they inflict.

Expressing empathy with ordinary citizens, Cachalia shared his understanding of the impact of violent crime, acknowledging the fear and trauma experienced by victims of muggings, home invasions, and other violent acts. He called for better law enforcement and government institutions that work effectively, urging the public to hold elected leaders and the police service accountable.

The Minister also highlighted the broader implications of organised crime, which poses a direct threat to national safety, economic growth, and security. He warned that criminal networks fuel violence, entrench corruption, and undermine investment, thereby preventing job creation. The scourge of drugs, extortion, kidnappings, vehicle hijackings, gang violence, and cash-in-transit heists have devastating effects on communities and small businesses.

Cachalia pointed to the importance of the Madlanga Commission and the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee of Inquiry, which are investigating allegations of criminal networks influencing political leaders and the top ranks of the South African Police Service (SAPS). He underlined the need for these inquiries to safeguard the future of criminal justice in South Africa.