Churches must help fight crime'

CHURCHES should be at the forefront of fighting crime in Port Elizabeth's northern areas, Deputy Police Minister Maggie Sotyu said.

For the past 15 years the northern areas have been racked by gangsterism and drug-related crimes.

Sotyu, who was accompanied by Eastern Cape police Lieutenant-General Cynthia Binta and Nelson Mandela Bay mayor Ben Fihla, visited the area yesterday. At the Chatty Community Hall, Fihla urged northern areas residents to take back their suburbs from criminal elements.

"This is an intervention programme to address crime-related issues. Fighting crime demands a united effort. We should work hard together in making a difference," he said.

There was also an opportunity for victims of crime, rehabilitated drug users and ex-convicts to give testimonies.