Groenewald blocks 28s gang leader’s move to Western Cape prison

Groenewald

Cape Town — The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Minister, Pieter Groenewald, is investigating the decision made to move infamous 28s prison gang leader, George “Geweld” Thomas to Helderstroom Prison on Caledon.

In a statement, the DCS noted the outcry from community leaders over Thomas’ presence in the communities, which they felt posed a threat to the safety of the people.

The department said it had redirected Thomas to a different maximum-security prison. It said that it would investigate the matter thoroughly to determine the reasons behind his irregular movement.

Groenewald also held a meeting with representatives from the Cape Crime Crisis Coalition (CCCC) to discuss concerns and possible interventions to reduce the presence of gang members in communities.

“We will work with communities on an ongoing basis to improve the system and maximise the positive change it can bring to vulnerable communities,” the minister said.
According to IOL,  the CCCC’s  Llewellyn MacMaster said Thomas posed a threat in an already volatile gang war scenario and that he had control over all the 28 gang members across the country.
Gang violence in the Western Cape—particularly in areas like Manenberg, Hanover Park, Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha, and Nyanga—has been rampant, with numerous fatalities resulting from ongoing gang conflicts, The Citizen, reported. 
Last month, the communities in Ottery and Lotus River were hit by terrible gang violence which saw an increase in killings, also due to gang violence. Mnay community forums and members were concerned over the shootings, citing poor policing and crime-fhgting efforts.

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Compiled by Matthew Petersen

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