EDITORIAL | Swift, relentless: what the Mongale breakthroughs tell us about the power of intel-led policing

The recent case of Olorato Mongale has revealed that policing alone does not solve crime, but communities do when they partner with law enforcement. But only when it is not performative but swift, reactive and equally proactive. Fast detection, reporting and response can ensure immediate progress.

Mongale was allegedly murdered hours after being picked up when friends became suspicious and alerted law enforcement, which in this case did not wait 24 hours before acting.

Mongale was killed on Monday, and on Friday a suspect, Philangenkosi Makhanya, was killed during a shoot-out with police in Amanzimtoti in KwaZulu-Natal. Bongani Mthimkhulu, his alleged accomplice with whom he targeted and robbed women, remains at large.

As a country we are accustomed to cases being ignored and investigations that drag on. The breakthrough in this case shows it is possible to solve crime within acceptable, if not impressive, time frames. Leaning on intel, tracing and technology, surveillance, forensic and decisive co-ordination and a lack of bureaucratic fog, we have seen some progress.   

This is an important step that is commendable but it is not the norm in South Africa. In the case of the seven-year-old Matatiele girl “Cwecwe”, there are allegations that the police have delayed investigations thus causing frustration and delays in obtaining justice.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) dropped the case due to lack of evidence, causing frustration among those who have campaigned for justice for her. Notably, the NPA is on the other side of the chain which relies on police investigations to find reason to prosecute. This then reflects the importance of police work and their dedication to crime busting.

Mongale’s case is motivation that when police want to act fast, they do and that it’s not always a matter of capacity but will, pressure and prioritisation

Mongale’s case is motivation that when police want to act fast, they do and that it’s not always a matter of capacity but will, pressure and prioritisation.

We look to the police to solve all the other thousands of cases that will potentially turn cold if they do not go the extra mile. Townships, suburbs and rural areas alike should feel and be safe. GBV cases and other serious matters should not gather dust, when clearly our police can solve crime.

There is a stark injustice that keeps occurring in this country where matters that shock the nation trend online and garner support seem to get resolved faster than others. Equally, the hope is that the swift reaction is complemented by certainty and intelligence.

Breakthroughs should not feel like miracles, but should have been a standard operating procedure.

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