Hill-Lewis encouraged by Cachalia's openness to extending some policing powers to local authorities

CAPE TOWN - Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said he's encouraged by Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia's openness to considering the extension of some policing powers to local police authorities.
 
The mayor met with the minister and Premier Alan Winde on Thursday to discuss the recent spate of violent crime in Cape Town. 
 
The municipality and the provincial government have been pushing to allow local law enforcement to have investigative powers over gang-related, drug trafficking, and firearm-related crimes.
 
Hill-Lewis said he's also impressed with the minister's focus on the need to improve crime intelligence to fight organised crime.
 
He said the city is ready to make an immediate impact in the fight against crime.
 
"So, I have no doubt that the minister is assured of our commitment to be part of the solution to help SAPS [South African Police Service] and strengthen his arm in trying to solve this problem."