Activist urges youth to reject criminals as their role models

Anti-crime activist, Calvin Rafadi, has called on young people to stop idolising criminals, a behaviour he believes is fuelling high crime rates in communities. 

His comments follow today’s Operation Shanela raids in Soshanguve, where police are battling issues like car theft, drug abuse, and the illegal alcohol trade.

Rafadi expressed grave concern, stating that Soshanguve has become a crime hotspot. 

He emphasised the need for ongoing police operations, especially as more firearms enter the area.

“We’ve realised that most of our youth are high on drugs and alcohol. There are so many role models in their lives committing crimes, being praised and worshipped by community members,” Rafadi said. 

“Even at funerals, they shoot their guns in the air, and girls celebrate them. It’s unacceptable.”

Rafadi called for stronger enforcement of laws, including measures to curb public drinking and ensure all vehicles are registered and roadworthy. 

He also highlighted the rampant bribery at the local magistrates court, stressing the importance of holding a community imbizo to end corruption.

Meanwhile, Tshwane police have launched a manhunt for the owner of a Soshanguve shebeen after a shooting left two people dead over the weekend. 

Law enforcement officials raided the Extension 7 tavern on Thursday as part of efforts to combat crime in the area.

Police confirmed that the tavern, where the shooting occurred, was operating illegally.

During the raid, authorities discovered a compound housing undocumented nationals, and one man was arrested.

“The search for the owner is still continuing. We are continuing to operate and search the area and will return. We want to ensure that communities around here do feel safe,” Tshwane District Commissioner, Major-General Samuel Thine, told journalists.

Police have warned that the area is becoming notorious for harbouring stolen vehicles, with at least one stolen car traced to the area daily. 

The authorities are calling for broader community support to combat the escalating crime.