Cele: I will work with anyone to improve people's lives
Police Minister Bheki Cele says he is willing to work with any formation which aims to improve the lives of ordinary people.
But this can only happen if they operate within the ambit of the law.
Cele's remarks come amid a heated debate over the conduct of Operation Dudula, whose members have taken it upon themselves to police illegal immigrants and suspected criminals.
Cele was in Kliptown on Wednesday to assess the local police station following violent clashes between residents on Monday.
The clashes left at least one person dead.
"I have seen all sorts of people, people who are from the ANC, the EFF people," Cele said.
"I have nothing to do with politics today but have everything to do with residents. If and when the residents must collaborate in finding peace and improving their lives, I have no qualms whatsoever to stand with whoever that will make the lives of people better."
READ: All valid claims will be settled, assures insurance association
Kgomotso Diale, a resident of Pimville, was shot and killed in Kliptown when his community clashed with residents of Chicken Farm informal settlement over alleged copper cable theft.
Pimville residents claim the informal settlement dwellers are behind the persistent copper cable theft in the area.
During his visit, Cele promised the Kliptown police station an additional ten vehicles and 12 detectives to curb crime in the area.
"This will increase the visibility of the police and increase the easy movement of the police to be seen around here," the minister said.
"We hope that more police will be here and they should not be parked in the police homes, not go for groceries. They must be permanently there to help improve people's lives."
MORE FROM ECR
