KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, has called on communities to actively participate in community policing as part of efforts to strengthen crime prevention interventions across the province.

Premier Ntuli made the call during a crime combating Imbizo held at the Mzingazi Sports Ground, in uMfolozi Local Municipality, on Wednesday, 08 July 2026.

The Imbizo formed part of the Provincial Government’s continued efforts to strengthen community safety structures, improve collaboration with law enforcement agencies and professionalise the functionality of voluntary crime prevention initiatives across KwaZulu-Natal.

Addressing community members, Premier Ntuli said improved cooperation between law enforcement, government and communities remains critical in the fight against crime.

“Improved collaboration between law enforcement, government and the community remains key as we strive to decrease all forms of crime in our neighbourhoods. Active participation in community policing is the solution to effectively deal with criminal elements. Community safety is indeed our collective responsibility,” said Premier Ntuli.

The Premier engaged with members of various community safety structures, civil society, Amakhosi and law enforcement agencies during the Imbizo.

As part of the programme, Premier Ntuli welcomed more than 300 newly recruited and trained crime prevention volunteers from uMfolozi Local Municipality. The volunteers are expected to support community-based crime prevention efforts and work closely with law enforcement to promote safer communities.

Premier Ntuli said the capacitation of community safety structures demonstrates the Provincial Government’s commitment to building safer neighbourhoods through active citizen participation and stronger partnerships.

The Premier also expressed concern about the mushrooming of unregistered liquor outlets in Mzingazi and Nzalabantu Reserve. These outlets are believed to be contributing to increased crime, particularly cases of gender-based violence and femicide, assault and house robberies.

Premier Ntuli urged communities to work with law enforcement and government structures to report illegal activities and ensure that criminal elements do not find refuge in communities.

He reiterated that the fight against crime requires a united and coordinated approach, with communities playing a central role in preventing crime, protecting vulnerable groups and restoring peace and stability in neighbourhoods.

The Imbizo reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthening crime prevention interventions, supporting community safety structures and ensuring that KwaZulu-Natal remains a safe province for all residents.