Criminology and Forensic Studies

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7765

This discipline area provides expert knowledge to deal effectively with crime, victimisation and conflict and to promote a democratic and just society with a human rights ethos as set out in the South African Constitution and Bill of Rights and other relevant international legal frameworks and treaties. It introduces students to biological, psychological and social dimensions of criminal behaviour and explores the application of these approaches to an understanding of the diversity of criminal behaviour. The critical evaluation and application of theories to different categories of crime and criminal behaviour provide students with the opportunity to explore and analyse individual and social influences on criminal behaviour. Not only is the multidimensional nature of conflict studied but analyses refer also to the functioning of the major tiers and role-players of criminal justice recognising the importance of judicial pluralism together with emerging forms of justice such as restorative justice. Current scholarly debates surrounding the workings and outcomes of the system and its component parts are analysed and evaluated and theories and perspectives of punishment, justice and crime reduction are appraised providing a critical understanding and specialised knowledge of the evolution, elements, aims and applications of punishment within a local and international human rights framework, focusing also on the gendering of crime and victimisation and minimum standards for child justice reform as well as structural interdicts to ensure state delivery. The importance of the crime case study method is furthermore highlighted with the presentation of material to the criminal justice system informed by scientific rigour. Analyses refer inter alia to the credibility of behavioural evidence, pre-sentence evaluations and victim impact statements.

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A cause to unravel the role of criminologists in compiling pre-sentence report: a South African perspective.
(Taylor and Francis, 2020) Diko, Bongolethu.; Olofinbiyi, Sogo Angel.; Steyn, Jéan.
A sizeable number of individuals, including members of the criminal justice system, have limited knowledge of the value of criminologists’ proficiency to compile an intensive pre-sentence report. To fill in this gap and gain an in-depth understanding of how criminologists can contribute as active participants in the criminal court, a qualitative research paradigm involving one-on-one in-depth interviews was employed to collect the data information that was required for the study. The findings strongly suggest that criminologists, who are currently functioning peripherally in the CJS, can be employed to exert greater influence on the compilation of PSRs, not only in the Durban High Court but also across a diverse range of contemporary global societies. More elaborately, the study has adequately demonstrated that the professionalization of criminologists should not only be restricted to research and scholastic endeavours.
A criminological inquiry into life insurance fraud in KwaZulu-Natal: an exploratory study.
(2023) Mthethwa, Nomathamsanqa.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Abstract available in PDF.
An examination of the social context of sexual victimisation of female students in institutions of higher learning in KwaZulu-Natal (Durban)
(2022) Makhaye, Mandisa Samukelisiwe.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Sexual victimisation is a serious violation of human rights, as well as a safety and public health concern. It does not only occur in one dimension or among a specific race group, but it affects all classes, races, settings, and circumstances. The aim of the study is to uncover the social context of the phenomenon of sexual victimisation in three selected institutions of higher learning in KwaZulu-Natal (Durban). The study's objectives are to investigate the nature of sexual victimisation against female students in Durban's selected universities; to determine the contributing factors to sexual victimisation against female students; to investigate the effects of sexual victimisation on female students; to investigate the lack of reporting of sexual victimisation by female students; and to evaluate the usefulness of current strategies for policing sexual offences in the selected universities. The Routines Activities Theory and the Integrated Theory of Sexual Offending guide the research. Both theories explain sexual victimisation in terms of the victim and the perpetrator, highlighting the explicit factors that contribute to the prevalence of sexual victimisation. A total of 46 participants were purposively sampled from three universities in Durban, and data was collected through interviews and thematically analysed. According to this study, incapacitated sexual victimisation is more common on campus than forcible rape, in which perpetrators use threats or physical force. This could be attributed to both the victim's and the perpetrator's excessive alcohol consumption and drug use. Victimisation can lead to social withdrawal, trauma, depression, and poor academic performance. Furthermore, some victims are infected with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), while others become pregnant. Furthermore, the study discovers that Student Representative Council (SRC) and lecturers abuse their power by requesting sexual favours from female students in exchange for securing a residence or grades. Statistics on sexual victimisation are unreliable because young female students are reluctant to report sexual victimisation to authorities. Some of the reasons for non-reporting include a fear of secondary victimisation and a lack of trust in institutions. According to the study's recommendations, the curriculum should include sex education to instil an understanding of consent and to foster dialogue and consistent awareness of sexual victimisation within the institution. Additionally, policies should be efficiently implemented according to the stipulated objectives. Furthermore, the study recommends upgrading security measures, establishing a gender-based violence (GBV) centre, capacitating security personnel to deal with cases of sexual victimisation, and forming a partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to encourage a transparent and efficient investigation process. Finally, institutions should implement an online reporting portal to create a safe space for victims to report.
An exploratory study of violent behaviours perpetrated against homeless people: a case study of Durban Central Business District.
(2023) Mthembu, Nosipho Nombulelo.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.
Abstract available in PDF.
An exploratory study on the partnership between private security industry and the South African Police Services to combat crime in South Africa, Durban.
(2022) Phakathi, Sinethemba.; Mbhele, Nkosingiphile Modeccai.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Abstract available in PDF.
An analysis of electricity theft: the case study of KwaXimba in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2017) Mbanjwa, Thobile.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
The illegal consumption of electricity is deemed a criminal offence that is punishable. Even so, there exist high levels of theft of electricity till date. Illegal electricity can be dangerous in nature due to the nature of its installation. These connections are done by non-expert persons and some of the safety precautions are not followed through. As a result, communities suffer the consequences. This study intended to identify the motivations behind the illegal consumption of electricity in the KwaXimba community. An investigation is also done on what are the effects of the theft of electricity on the community. This was a deliberate attempt to uncover whether communities are aware of such dangers. Eskom is aware of such and has a number of preventative measures against the theft of electricity, in place. This study aimed to investigate, the strategies in place in an attempt to curb electricity theft. This study investigated the illegal connections of electricity in KwaXimba. The main objective of the study was to determine the major cause of electricity theft in KwaXimba, the approaches implemented to reduce the rise in electricity theft moreover, it aimed to evaluate the effects electricity theft has on electricity supply and the community. In order to achieve this, the qualitative approaches were used. Interviews were conducted on participants that were purposively selected. The data was then analysed thematically. Findings of this study revealed that the issue of electricity theft in the community was a structural issue. The issue of theft is normalised within the community. The study revealed that individuals steal electricity based on personal decisions and preferences. Another factor was that it is acceptable to steal electricity in the community. The minority of the members stole electricity because they had bought houses that had readily stolen electricity. The researcher deduced some recommendations from the study, for one, an electrification program should be made to save both Eskom Revenue from illegal consumption and to save the lives of the community members especially the vulnerable group, children who fall victims to exposed cables. Also, organisations such as community safety and Eskom should formulate programs that are aimed towards de-normalising the act of electricity theft in the community of KwaXimba and across other communities.
Analysis of Independent Police Investigative Directorate investigators’ experiences of the application of Section 28(1)(f) of the IPID mandate, torture and assault, by police officials in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
(2017) Hadebe, Philisiwe Nicole.; Gopal, Nirmala Devi.
The South African Police Service officers have informally incorporated the operational methods of torture and assault in the execution of their duties in the reformed police service of South Africa. This historical conversation of police torture and assault has generated a debate over what constitutes torture and what has caused the persistence of this blunder in the police service. This study went a step further by exploring accountability mechanisms that are in place to reduce incidences of torture and assault. The investigation entailed an analysis of the effectiveness of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) strategies and challenges encountered by investigating officers in addressing section 28(1)(f) of the IPID mandate. The analyses of the experiences of the selected IPID investigating officers strove to determine the nature of police torture and assault in this country’s democratic dispensation and to determine the stumbling blocks that exist in the SAPS and IPID organisations for the reduction of police torture and assault in KwaZulu-Natal. This study adopted a qualitative interpretive phenomenological approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with ten (n=10) IPID investigating officers whose investigations were guided by section 28(1)(f) of the IPID mandate in the KwaZulu-Natal province. The participants were selected by means of the purposive sampling technique. Using a thematic analysis approach, the study revealed that assault in KwaZulu-Natal province includes slapping, kicking and punching a suspect whereas torture constituted strangulation, suffocation, electrocution and tubing and occurred predominantly when the police were searching for information about dagga, firearms and undetected suspects. The influx of cases of torture and assault is the outcome of several problems, namely public’s lack of understanding of the police procedures, public provoke the police, excessively volatile raids, inadequate police training as it does not address the challenges that the police experience in their occupational setting, and management pressure on the police to meet projected targets for firearm or drug retrieval. More specifically, the study also found that, in addressing the issue of police torture and assault, IPID investigating officers encountered various challenges such as a lack of evidence from complainants, lack of police cooperation, lack of complainants’ cooperation in the investigation, and lack of resources. The findings thus suggest that investigation strategies in terms of police brutality are ineffective due to investigative challenges. This in turn renders the disciplinary and criminal conviction strategies ineffective in ensuring police accountability. As a result, torture and assault by police officers are perpetuated.
An analysis of occupational stress amongst South African Police Services detectives working on murder cases: a case study of Inanda Police Station.
(2019) Sibisi, Nonhle Tracey.; Singh, Shanta Balgobind.; Murhula, Bashizi Bashige.
Background: Assistance to employees to maintain a work-life balance has been increasingly recognised as a goal for law enforcement agencies around the world, especially during the last decade. The intense and continuous physical and emotional work demands generate stressors in organisations and employees’ lives. While stress is unavoidable, occupational stressors should be limited and support structures should be effective in equipping workers with coping mechanisms. Policing remains a profession with high exposure to incidents that can trigger stress. The purpose of this study was to analyse occupational stress amongst South African Police Service detectives responding to murder cases. Methods: The study adopted a qualitative research approach. Data were collected from eight (n=8) murder detectives in the South African Police Service and 2 employees from the Employee, Health and Wellbeing services. Eight (8) murder detectives were located at Inanda Police Station, in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal and employee health and well-ness practitioners interviewed. The sample was obtained using purposive sampling. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted and recorded with a voice recorder. The data were analysed through thematic analysis. Findings: The study found that nature of stress among detectives depends on their work tasks such as exposure to traumatic crime scenes and a high workload. The factors that contribute to occupational stress in murder detectives in Inanda were found to be inherent in the nature of their job (high workload), organisation (career development, lack of resources and lack of effective coordination within the SAPS) and community (demographics of the community and lack of cooperation from the community), resulting in such challenges as psychological, cognitive, emotional and behavioural challenges. Most detectives do not consider the available support structures as being effective due to the unavailability of employee, health and well-ness practitioners and lack of time to utilise support services. Implications: Based on the findings, it is recommended that employee health and wellness practitioners should improve their marketing strategies in order for detectives to be aware of their support services. It is also important for employee health and wellness practitioners to understand the daily activities of detectives and formulate programmes that will be effective and accessible to them.
An analysis of psychosocial factors of psychoactive illicit substance use in a select sample in Chatsworth.
(2018) Umra, Anira.; Gopal, Nirmala Devi.
“Drug addiction has reached epidemic levels across the globe with approximately 247 million drug users worldwide” (World Drug Report, 2016). Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) (2017) uncovered that approximately 15.3 million people have been diagnosed with drug use disorders caused by the use and abuse of psychoactive illicit substances. Psychoactive illicit substances directly affect pathways in the brain, thus causing changes in the moods, behaviour, consciousness and overall thought processes of individuals. The use of these illicit substances places substantial economic, mental and health-related burdens on societies all over the world (WHO, 2004:7-10). The South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use report (Dada, Burnhams, Erasmus, Parry, Bhana, Timol, & Fourie, 2017:1-2) found that illicit psychoactive substance use is an ageless social phenomenon. Substance abuse problems have been found to affect the youth and people right into their eighties (South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Report, 2017). It was against this backdrop that the current research was constructed. With the aim of investigating psychological and social factors (psychosocial) related to illicit psychoactive substance use in Chatsworth near Durban, South Africa. Data were elicited from 62 respondents who were enrolled in addiction support and therapy programs at ADF. The research took cognizance of the location (i.e., the study area) when examining the psychosocial factors related to psychoactive substance use. Three main theories were used to inform the theoretical framework of this research and in the analysis of the results; Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development, the social bond theory and the social disorganisation theory. Erikson stages of psychosocial development were used understand the psychological factors, social bond theory was use to understand the social factors and lastly the social disorganisation theory was used when trying to understand the role of the location in psychoactive illicit substance use. The combinations of theories were also used to understand different dimensions of psychoactive illicit substance use. Finding from the research showed that half of the respondents (50%) believed that members of the police were involved with local drug dealers. Key psychosocial findings included; the use of illicit substances in escapism, as a stress-related coping mechanism. In addition findings showed that there was a high percentage of awareness of local dealers. Respondents claimed knowledge of other users in the community as well as awareness of viii common psychoactive substances in the community. Respondents indicated that they were influenced to use illicit substances by either family members’ or friends’ use of illicit substances. This research offers recommendations that speak to the possible use of the cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), as a coping strategy that could reduce negative emotional responses associated with stress. A further recommendation is for Community organisations such as youth support groups, school counsellors, the community policing forums and community social workers to work collaboratively to provide awareness workshops and support programs.
Analysis of the radicalisation of Islam : case studies from South Africa and the United Kingdom.
(2017) Maharajh, Annika.; De Wet, Johan Andrew.
Radicalisation is a problem to which no country is immune. It is a dramatic shift in behaviour and attitude that carries undesirable consequences such as the breakdown of families, communities, and democracies – with the ultimate consequence being terrorism. The growing concern of Islamic radicalisation and the impact it can possibly have underscores the focus of the current study. It also speaks to issues around religious freedom and the broader fight against terrorism. It will be looking into the commonly cited causes of radicalisation and the psychological processes involved in an individual’s path to radicalism. The research was approached from a constructionist orientation meaning that individuals shape their reality based on their beliefs and interactions with other people and the world. The study examines radicalisation within a paradigm focused on a combination of criminological and psychological principles, to produce a contextualised study on Islamic radicalisation. Case studies from South Africa and the United Kingdom will be assessed with the theoretical frameworks of Moghaddam’s Staircase to Terrorism (2005) and the Root Cause Model (Veldhuis & Staun, 2009) to demonstrate the universality of the phenomenon of radicalisation. The study rests on the idea of instrumental rationality found in rational choice theory with the objective of assessing South Africa’s risk to radicalisation based on micro and macro factors. The research found that the factors, which result in radicalisation, are many and complex, and may not be reduced to a single cause. Although one factor that seems to play a very significant role is identity, more specifically the need to belong, be accepted and to have a purpose. In other words, the radical religious ideology provides vocabulary and a bolstered identity, whereas politics provide the stimulus. The ideology of the group is not as important as what the group is offering the individual in terms of acceptance and a platform for expression. This study, as previously stated is about Islamism due to global concern, although it could have been about any radical organisation or movement. It is recommended that discussions about religion, identity, foreign policy and politics be encouraged especially amongst younger people. These discussions should not be weakened by political correctness, or when a radical view is expressed, the fear of censure. All ideologies are, and should be open to questioning and investigation. The researcher understands that this topic may be misunderstood – implying that there is a heightened risk posed by specific groups. It is hoped that the substance of the study will prove otherwise, with the researcher maintaining a secular view throughout.
An analysis of WhatsApp as a tool for crime prevention in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2018) Du Plessis, Jodie.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Violent crime levels are on the rise on South Africa; however, the advent of the Internet, and the subsequent advancement of social media, has drastically changed the way in which community members can get involved in community crime prevention efforts. It is evident that the use of WhatsApp for crime prevention purposes by communities is a new trend in crime prevention; however, there is a limited body of scientific information that illuminates this phenomenon. Therefore, the aim of this research is thus to determine which WhatsApp practices could be regarded as the most effective for use by communities to enhance community-based crime prevention efforts in the area of study. It is argued that this information could inform a set of guidelines for the use of WhatsApp in crime prevention that could be utilised by the various communities in the area of study, and even beyond the demographic borders of the Highway Area. The findings of this study show that WhatsApp is attractive for crime prevention purposes because it has improved the way in which communities can communicate with a broader audience in a much quicker fashion than before. This enhances crime response rates and curbs further instances of crime. The findings of this study also highlighted areas in which WhatsApp use can be carefully regulated to ensure its most effective and lawful use in crime prevention. This research was conducted in the Highway Area in KwaZulu-Natal. In this area, communities are increasingly using WhatsApp for crime prevention purposes, and role-players (e.g. the SAPS, private security companies, emergency services etc.) operating in this area are becoming more active on community-driven WhatsApp groups in order to assist with resources for crime prevention and responses to emergency situations.
An analytical study of xenophobic attacks in South African universities/tertiary institutions with specific reference to the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and Durban University of Technology (DUT)
(2019) Maseko, Nonjabulo.; Maweni, Vuyelwa Kemiso.
There is growing concern with xenophobia, an act of perpetuating the violation of human rights. Xenophobia has negative implications on the teaching community. This study explores the nature and prevalence of xenophobia in South African higher learning institutions. The Social Learning Theory adopted in the study explains that xenophobic behaviours practised by the South African communities at large are transferred into the vicinity of higher learning institutions through being socially learned from public members who possess hatred towards foreign nationals. Moreover, the Realistic Group Conflict Theory adopted in this study explains how xenophobia is constituted due to competition for university jobs, scholarships and the perceived threat of foreign nationals’ getting higher marks and recognition than South African students. In exploring the nature and prevalence of xenophobia within higher learning institutions, the study explored the perceptions of Black foreign national students studying at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and Durban University of Technology, South Africa. Using qualitative individual face-to-face semi-structured interviews, the study revealed that xenophobia is a common reality within both universities. The findings further uncovered that the nature of xenophobia within higher learning institutions is often expressed through discriminatory practices and name-calling. The study findings further revealed that university staff and students often perpetuate acts of xenophobia. The xenophobic attacks are either verbal or emotional and not physical as it is often the case with the broader South African communities. As a result, reporting xenophobic attitudes and behaviours becomes problematic. The study recommends that the implementation of laws that relate to xenophobia as an offence can lower xenophobic attacks and secondary victimisation when students attempt to report incidents of xenophobia. Another recommendation is that of establishing a xenophobia helpline in universities through which international students who are victimised can call to report victimisation.
Assessing the extent of child trafficking and national reponse to Southern Gondar, Ethiopia.
(2017) Tolla, Aden Dejene.; Singh, Shanta Balgobind.
Human beings were bought and sold like materials for merchants as an exchange by warriors and kings in the early nineteenth century. Unfortunately, this horrible trade has continued in a more terrible manner called human trafficking or modern-day slavery. The issue of human trafficking is a huge concern for most nations. In Ethiopia, trafficking in person has been a common practice - affecting individuals and communities irrespective of age, gender and ethnicity. Child trafficking in Ethiopia is one of their main social problems. This research aims to explore the extent of child trafficking in Este Worda and Debre Tabor Worda, and to investigate the possible community associated factors which cause child trafficking. The national response to fight and control the problem in Ethiopia was also further investigated in this study. The General Strain Theory and Karl Marx Conflict Theory that had been chosen to further explain of the research questions and objectives. This study applies quantitative research method, descriptive and explorative designs is used to address the research questions and documentary data review reports from governmental and non-governmental experiences of strategies, policies and findings from existing documents. A total of 636 household participants were selected by systematic random sampling technique in order to fulfil the quantitative survey. Analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 statistical software packages. The data was analysed by logistic regression, bivariate analysis of factors association, multivariate analysis and Cross tabulation of factors associated with child trafficking were thus investigated. The study interpreted the quantitative findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of the extent and prevalence, associated factors, and response to child trafficking in Ethiopia. ix According to the research result in the study area, 128 children had been trafficked in to different places. The extent of child trafficking is about (20 percent) in East Este Woreda in 2016. The result of this study is on based on bivariate and multivariate significant outcomes using SPSS to determine the four independent variables (socio-demographic factors, socio-economic factors, information and communication factors and socio-cultural factors) are possible community associated factors which contributed to child trafficking in the society. The Socio-demographic factors (education, age, marital status and geographical exposure) were found be the factors for a child to be trafficked. Socio-economic factors (poverty, parent disintegration, children expectation and parents’ expectation, luck of structured facilities, influence of returns, demand and hotel owners and broker’s effect) were found to be influential factors for child trafficking as well. There were socio- cultural factors (culture e.g. early marriage, parent poor child care skill, gender violence, domestic violence and seasonal factor) which influenced child trafficking in East Este and Debre Tabor Woreda. Information and communication factors (globalisation, factual awareness about trafficking, less awareness of child rights and access to communication) have been found the main contributed factors for trafficking from this research study. The research also shows that child labour issues are common in Ethiopia. The majority of Ethiopian children who participated in such activities, work as part of the livelihoods of their families. Regarding family duties and responsibility, children usually daughters are more responsible for supporting their parents, this result to scarify themselves by engaging in various social practices like servitude and other works in town and inspire in early marriage to endure the problem. Victim’s relatives, friends, associates and family play a significant role in internal child trafficking in Ethiopia. The response of Ethiopian government to child trafficking is positive but it is very limited and cannot combat the problem. However, Ethiopian government has developed and endorsed regulatory and legal frame works and put various measures in place to a fight, control, prevent and address the problem of child trafficking. Due to the condition, implementation problem, poor governance, no direct support for the victims, shortage of skilled police to examine child trafficking, official corruption, low prosecution of traffickers and limited child trafficking policies are those factors for un success out come and low progress to deal with the problem. Despite the legal provision which take the first line render proper justice on brokers and facilitators of child trafficking in Ethiopia, and the child trafficking policies and legislations have proved to be not strong enough to prevent and protect, obviously there is problem with implementation and direct assistance with victims.
An assessment of weather patterns on property-related crimes in Newlands East policing area, Durban.
(2018) Mbonambi, Nokukhanya Neptune.; Dlamini, Siyanda.
It is in the best interest of community members, as well as policy makers to comprehend the factors that influence crime while not solely focusing on the effectiveness of the available strategies. This study aimed at exploring the South African Police Services (SAPS) perceptions on weather patterns as a contributory factor to residential burglary in the Newlands East Policing Area of Durban. The motivation behind this study was based in safety within the selected community, mainly focusing on burglary at residential burglary premises because this crime has seen the highest reported property-related crime in the area for the past five years (2012-2016). It was also underpinned by the National Developmental Plan (NDP) of attempting to build safer communities by 2030. In ensuring that the aim of this study was achieved, a qualitative research designed was used, which assisted the researcher to focus on the exploration of weather patterns on burglary in a residential setting. Data collection for this study was based on semi-structured interviews conducted on an individual basis with selected participants. It combined a set of pre-determined questions that enabled the interviewer to explore further particular themes and responses. The findings of this study revealed that residential burglary increase and decrease in relation to different weather conditions within the location of this study. Overall, it can be concluded that weather patterns are indeed a contributory factor to residential burglary. It also suggested that police officials have developed strategies against weather patterns on residential burglary. However, the challenge lies in the communities’ co-operation in fighting this kind of crime.
Audience perception of portrayals of women in selected Lokshin Bioskop films.
Mtshede, Sibusiso Thembalami.; Teer-Tomaselli, Ruth Elizabeth.
This study was aimed at audience perceptions on the representation of women in Lokshin Bioskop films. The purpose of carrying out this research is to find out what the female audience has to say on the female representation in three Lokshin Bioskop feature films. This study will be informed by the encoding and decoding theory. The research explored representations of women in feature films through an assessment of the audience’s perceptions therefore this study seeks to gain an insight into gendered reception hence the focus group participants are women. Three feature films Taxi Ride, Umalokazana and Jezebel have been selected for this study and will be viewed by the targeted audience and representation analysis will be drawn from these films. This study analysed how the audience perceived the representations of women from the three selected Lokshin Bioskop films by the directors.
Bouncers’ interaction with patrons in five Durban nightclubs: effectiveness and patrons’ perceptions of bouncers.
(2017) Mbhele, Nkosingiphile Modeccai.; Singh, Shanta Balgobind.
The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) is responsible for regulating and monitoring the private security sector. This was established in terms of section 2 of the Private Security Industry Regulation Act of 2002. The mandates and principles originating from this Act drove the regulations that currently guide the private security industry. Nightclubs in South Africa have relied heavily on private security companies to protect their property and ensure the safety of patrons during busy nights. However, as far back as 2003, Hobbs, Hadfield, Lister and Winlow (2003) stated that nightclubs and the nighttime economy generally were left unregulated with many activities revolving around a sea of alcohol. Because there is a plethora of evidence that links alcohol and violence, it is important to understand the relationship between bouncers and patrons, as well as the role and competence of bouncers in this relationship, from a scholarly perspective. Bouncers are key players in maintaining safety and security at nightclubs, thus this study investigated the relationship between bouncers and patrons and their respective perspectives on the extent of violence and aggression that occur in nightclubs as places of entertainment where alcohol is sold. The study identified 30 participants by utilising a non-probability sampling method. Of the 30 participants, 10 bouncers were sampled using the purposive sampling technique. Nine bouncers were male and one was female. Semi-structured interviews were utilised to elicit the views of bouncers. Moreover, 20 undergraduate students who had attended any one of the five nightclubs under study were sampled using the convenience sampling technique. Focus group interviews were conducted with undergraduate students at the Howard campus, University of Kwa Zulu -Natal. In this process, males and females were interviewed separately. The study revealed that bouncers generally responded positively regarding their relationship with patrons. However, some concluded that their attitude and behaviour depended on patrons’ behaviour. Bouncers indicated that they were compelled to deal with patrons in a physical manner at least once. Moreover, most of the bouncers had not received relevant security training and they were not in possession of PSIRA cards as recommended by PSIRA. Female patrons generally responded that bouncers conducted their duties correctly and effectively, which contradicted the views of male patrons. One male patron noted that the manner in which bouncers did their job depended on the environment. Neither the male nor the female participants were aware of PSIRA and its rules and regulations that bouncers should abide by. The majority thought that bouncers were only required to be big and physically fit. Some male patrons could recall positive experiences with bouncers, but the majority recalled negative experiences.
The combating of cable theft in Durban railway stations.
(2018) Nobanda, Liso.; Maluleke, Witness.; Maweni, Vuyelwa Kemiso.
The seriousness of cable theft in South African communities cannot be ignored; it highly deserves attention and quick interventions. The associated damages caused by this scourge are irreversible to the infrastructure of Durban rail stations of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in particular. The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) in Durban is currently losing billions of rands resulting from cable thieves vandalising railway stations. However, the impact of cable theft further hampers economic growth and business productivity, directly curbing job creation in the process, leaving many residents in the surrounding squatter camps compromised, since trains cause delays on the railway stations, leaving commuters with no means of transport to and from work. This study assesses the nature of cable theft in Durban railway stations, looking at probable contributory factors to this crime. The study further examines the existing strategies (and their effectiveness) in response to cable theft as well as the existing challenges faced by Durban railway stations in combating cable theft. This study adopted a qualitative research approach through the use of semi-structured interviews to solicit perceptions and experiences of PRASA ‘Security Personnels – Cable theft investigators and cable theft railway patrollers’ involved in preventing and combating cable theft in Durban railway stations. The findings of this study confirmed that cable theft in Durban railway stations is a serious crime and the investigations conducted by these personnel (cable theft investigators and cable theft railway patrollers) revealed that when cables are stolen, the rail service normally shuts down, causing train derailments, among other problems. Furthermore, the study found that scrap metal dealers are the key contributors to cable theft in Durban railway stations as well as the shortage of resources, which include lack of manpower or police visibility and installed cameras. Lastly, the study found that the police normally lose dockets handed to them by PRASA cable theft investigators and there is a lack of internal and external (SAPS) reporting structures. For recommendations, this study proposes that more attention must be paid to scrap metal dealers by offering strict rules on the issuing of trading licences. Furthermore, severe sentences for possible offenders should be practiced, and better working relations should be established, with more resources geared to security departments. The implementation of relevant stakeholders’ partnerships and a branded ‘Cable Theft Specialised Unit’ could also assist in combating cable theft. The amendments of the existing legislative frameworks and alignment with technological advances and improvements would be of great assistance as well to put a stop to this crime.
Community engagement of local space in crime mapping and policing of informal settlements : a study of Cato Crest informal settlement.
(2012) Singh, Shalendra.; Marks, Monique.; Hargovan, Hema Keshavlal.
In any country where there are informal settlements, crime prevention and combat is, to a great extent, determined by the availability of reliable information about crime and about the physical environment in which it occurs. Of equal importance in reducing crime is accurate reporting on the behalf of the public and accurate mapping of crime incidences on the part of the police. Informality makes such information gathering, reporting and mapping extremely challenging. Street level geocoding match rates are lower in informal settlements areas compared to formal urban areas, due to the fact that these areas are unplanned without any road networks or proper address points. To determine the success or otherwise of measures taken to control crime in informal settlements, it is necessary for a system to be in operation whereby crime can be geocoded to a specific location. The integration of community local knowledge with Geographic Information Systems can help populate urban-based geospatial databases for informal settlement crime mapping, and a mental mapping exercise can contribute by the identification of landmarks which can be geocoded. The aim of this research was to establish how community understandings and constructions of their local geography can contribute to ‘official’ police crime mapping and, consequently, to the improvement of policing in informal settlements. In order to achieve this research objective, community ‘mind maps’ were explored through focus groups and these were correlated with police geocoding and mapping systems. The aim here was to explore whether and how these systems can work together in dealing more effectively with crime and in enhancing police-community relations in informal settlement areas. A key finding of this research was that, coming together or integration between community generated mapping information and conventional GIS methodologies, has the potential to completely transform the way in which informal settlements crimes are mapped.
Community perceptions of child sexual assault : case study of Ngangelizwe community in Mthatha.
(2016) Mphatheni, Mandlenkosi Richard.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Numerous studies have been done on child sexual violence/abuse (CSV/A). Sexual victimization of minors remains a constant problem globally. Section 28(1) (d) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996 (South Africa, 1996) provides that every child has the right to be safeguard from ill-treatment, desertion, exploitation and degradation. November 2014 marked the 25th anniversary of the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). On this occasion, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) called on the South African government to once again prioritise children’s rights as a key government agenda, to commit to its obligations under the CRC, to uphold the promise made to South Africa’s children by the late Nelson Mandela, and to heed his powerful words: “History will judge us by the differences we make in the everyday lives of children”. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 community members of Ngangelizwe Township in Mthatha, Eastern Cape province. The interviews were held in the period August 2016 - September 2016. The aim of the investigation was to determine the social, biological, and psychological effects of child sexual offences on children and as well as their parents, families, and the community at large. The study explored the authentic views of Township people, as there is limited scholarly literature on child sexual abuse and particularly on the experiences of Township residents of this atrocious act. Community members shared their views on the effects of child sexual assault, and there was common agreement that the sexual abuse of a child destroys the psychological and physical well-being not only of the child, but also of the parents. Sexually abused children show signs of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, mental disturbance, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They also lose focus at school and they often isolate themselves from other children. These children lose trust not only in the person who sexually abused them, but in all older people, as it is usually adults who perpetrate this crime. Sexually abused children experience memory loss, always live in fear, and experience anxiety disorders long after the event.
Community policing forum : exploring general community and CPF members’ perspective on the value of and the effectiveness of CPF in Glenmore and Umbilo communities.
(2017) Snyman, Zipho Nomsasa.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
A community policing forum (CPF) is one of the structures used for crime prevention within the community. This structure is used nationally; its objectives are likely to be similar in some of the countries. This study sought to explore the perspective of community members and CPF members on the value and effectiveness of Community Police Forums in the area of Glenmore and Umbilo. The researcher intended to explore various which can make CPF effective within the study area with the hope of minimising crime rate and related incidents. To obtain that, the researcher had five objectives which were; To explore the perspective of community members and CPF members on the value and effectiveness of CPF within the communities; to determine the roles of CPF within the community; to determine whether the community members of the stated areas are aware about the existence of CPF; to determine the need of CPF within the community and to explore the challenges faced by the CPF members. Triangulation of theories which included Broken Windows Theory and Social Disorganisation Theory has been used as the theoretical framework. This study applied a qualitative design located with an interpretivist paradigm. In-depth interviews with ordinary community members and CPF members were conducted (triangulation of sources). The data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of this study showed that the CPF in the stated areas is effective, even though the structure is isolated from community members. The members of the community see the value of having community policing forums within the communities. Most community members claimed not to know about the strategies used to broadcast the existence of the forum within their community. CPF members also outlined the challenges which they are facing, to mention a few they, pointed out that in Umbilo community members are renting properties, and they keep on changing their residential and that lead them into not taking much responsibility in crime prevention methods which the community implements.

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