UNITED DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT

MEDIA RELEASE

COCAINE BUST ILLUSTRATE SA'S INCREASING LINK WITH INTERNATIONAL DRUG TRAFFICKING

STATEMENT ISSUED BY ANNELIZÉ VAN WYK, MP
UDM SPOKESPERSON ON SAFETY AND SECURITY

The UDM commends the SAPS for their efforts in the past week with regard to the numerous large consignments of drugs that have been confiscated. The latest massive haul of cocaine found on board a ship in Saldanha, illustrate the link between SA and the international drug trade. In the face of this onslaught the Police deserve praise for the sterling work of the past week.

It is important to remain vigilant; we cannot afford to claim victory now. The number of confiscations and arrests could be an indication of SA's increasing link with the international drug trade. Evidence seem to be pointing in that direction, with the high number of South Africans arrested locally and in foreign countries for drug-related offences.

South Africa is facing a social time bomb with large quantities of drugs flooding the country, whilst unemployment, especially among the youth, is at an all-time high. The combination is deadly. Organised crime lords and gangsters lure tens and thousands of our children into a decrepit lifestyle, where addiction creates a powerful tool for exploitation.

The UDM calls on government to develop an integrated strategy to deal with drugs and gangsterism, with a dedicated budget, to strengthen the hand of the dedicated police officers and communities who are doing their best to address this problem.

Enquiries:
Annelizé van Wyk, MP
UDM Spokesperson on Safety and Security
082 - 557 4184

Cape Town
3 August 2001