Africa-Press – Eswatini. Stakeholders from government, law enforcement, corporate partners, and community structures have come together at the Matsapha Town Council Civic Centre for the Crime Prevention Forum 2025,
The forum aims to tackle the growing problem of copper theft while strengthening safety in the town by bringing together key stakeholders to discuss practical strategies for protecting public infrastructure, safeguarding communities, and enhancing service delivery.
The forum, hosted by Matsapha Town Council, began with an opening prayer and welcome remarks that set a tone of unity and shared responsibility. Council leadership and the organising offices outlined the objectives of the forum, reaffirming the council’s proactive approach to crime prevention and the importance of coordinated action.
Deputy Mayor Sipho Sibandze, representing the Mayor of Matsapha, highlighted the serious economic and social consequences of crime, particularly in industrial zones. He noted that vandalism, theft of public infrastructure, and lawlessness undermine investor confidence, threaten jobs, and compromise the quality of life for residents and businesses. “Decisive, united action is needed to protect Matsapha’s position as a key economic hub,” he said.
The Crime Prevention Unit presented findings from the 2024 Crime Prevention Forum report and outlined priorities for 2025–2026, emphasising the need for strengthened intelligence sharing, active community reporting, and coordinated operations to curb copper theft and related crimes. Forum discussions stressed that theft and tampering with infrastructure disrupt essential services such as water, electricity, and telecommunications, creating broader economic losses and safety risks.
Participants agreed that copper theft is not a victimless crime, but a catalyst for wider social and economic challenges. The forum concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to foster cooperation, implement practical crime prevention measures, and build safer, more resilient communities in Matsapha.
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