Frustrated residents of Duduza, led by local Community Police Forums (CPFs), marched in protest to the Nigel police station on Monday, demanding the immediate removal of the station commander. Protesters accused her of refusing to collaborate with CPFs and failing to address rising crime in the area.
The demonstrators allege that police are complicit with criminals, warning that they may “take the law into their own hands” if their grievances are ignored.
“We are not fearing anyone—not even the police,” said one resident. “This is our country, and our frustrations are being ignored. This is not the first memorandum we’ve submitted, but nothing has changed.”
Tensions escalated as the station commander reportedly responded with force, though details of the confrontation remain unclear.
Calls for Resignation and Broader Accountability
Kolani Kumalo, host of a crime-fighting television show, weighed in, stating that the station commander should step down if she continues to reject community policing efforts.
“It’s simple—she can resign,” Kumalo said. “There’s a serious crime problem here, and we have corrupt officers taking bribes from drug dealers and criminals. This corruption starts at the lowest levels and goes up. We need answers.”
Ultimatum Issued
The Duduza community has issued a seven-day ultimatum, threatening to shut down the township for an entire month if their demands are not met.
“We will not back down,” a protester declared. “If our concerns are not addressed, we will make sure our voices are heard.”
Local authorities have yet to issue an official response, but the growing unrest highlights deepening mistrust between residents and law enforcement in the area.