Opinion

Better To Build New Prisons Than Release More Prisoners

May 30, 2006 Edition 1

As if we do not have enough criminals wandering our streets, there is now a proposal to release another batch of prisoners.

According to the government, it saved a whopping R70 million when the last lot were released. But what the government doesn't tell you is the cost every time a criminal is arrested and sentenced.

The cost to the private sector in losses of property and insurance claims must be millions - and what about the physical and mental abuse to the victims of crime?

Crime is rampant and out of control. Our police force is ineffective and bound by ridiculous laws that favour the criminals.

I can only imagine the sheer frustration of risking your life to arrest a criminal, only to see him set free again. If there is a shortage of prison space, then instead of wasting our taxes on trips overseas, new cars and houses, build new prisons.

Criminals need to be taught that crime does not pay. It is time for this madness to stop.

AB

Durban

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