New Donnybrook Police Station Opens in KwaZulu-Natal

The SAPS is opening new police stations (Image ref: The citizens)

Mavhungunekuvule Mungomeni

(The Post News) – To address the rise in crime rates in KwaZulu-Natal, Police Minister Bheki Cele, and national police commissioner Fannie made a significant move by building the Donnybrook Police Station in the Harry Gwala District on Tuesday, April 23rd. This proactive action was taken following the official handover of the newly constructed Gamalakhe Police Station to the local community residents.

In addressing the pressing issue of rising crime rates in KwaZulu-Natal, Police Minister Bheki Cele said, “The police station is well-capacitated with adequate staff and boasts holding cells and a gym for officers.” Minister Cele, along with National Police Commissioner Fannie, have officially handed over two newly constructed police stations to the communities in KwaZulu-Natal, reinforcing the commitment to enhancing safety and security in the region.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), one way to improve service delivery in South Africa is by constructing police stations. As a direct response from the government, several communities in KwaZulu-Natal, including Gamalakhe, Donnybrook, and Melmoth, will now have access to police services right in their neighborhoods. In March 2023, SAPS Management fast-tracked police services to communities by visiting the Makhaza and Tafelsig Police Stations in the Western Cape. They were pleased with the progress made in constructing these two police stations.

“The delivery of police services to communities also forms part of responding to concerns raised by residents during the many Ministerial Community Engagement meetings held across the country. This is in a bid to address the policing needs of communities and bring policing resources closer to communities,” said SAPS. Alongside the SAPS initiative, the Gamalakhe station was handed over to the communities, expected to serve more than 37,000 people. This handover took place on Monday, preceding the official opening of the Donnybrook Police Station.

The new station will assist the authorities in being on high alert to ensure the community has a proper defense against criminals. However, both residents and authorities must fight against criminals.