More Policing, Less Chauffeuring

Statement by Edwin Macrae Bath MP – DA Deputy Spokesperson on Public Works and Infrastructure:

Twelve holding cells at Howick Police Station, inoperable since 2019, have now been restored under Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson. See photos here, here and here.

The reopening marks a significant milestone for policing in the greater uMngeni area.

With these cells now fully operational, Howick SAPS can once again detain suspects locally, reducing the need to transport detainees to Msunduzi and other neighbouring police stations.

This will free up valuable police resources, allowing officers to spend more time keeping our communities safe rather than transporting prisoners over long distances.

One of the most encouraging aspects of this project is that the restoration work was carried out entirely in-house by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. This demonstrates the value and capability of the Department’s artisans and technical teams to restore and maintain public infrastructure efficiently and cost-effectively.

As we commemorate Mandela Day, this project serves as a reminder that maintaining public infrastructure is ultimately about serving people. Continued investment in training, upskilling and expanding the Department’s artisan capacity will ensure that more maintenance and restoration projects like this become the norm across South Africa.

This is a practical example of DA in government working to improve public infrastructure and support frontline service delivery that improve the daily lives and safety of South Africans.