IMC concerned about website profiling
"The IMC has noted the attempt by Neil Watson [an insurance broker setting up the web page] to launch the website. However, we are concerned about the appropriateness of any campaign that focuses only on the negatives and ignores the growing range of success in the fight against crime," said IMC spokeswoman Tumelo Kumalo.
She said the IMC was aware of the negative and traumatic effects of crime on society, the economy and on international perceptions of the country.
Watson’s campaign would however only instil fear and undermine the economic opportunities created by tourism and investment, only adding to the very problem he sought to address, Kumalo said.
While the IMC believed public awareness of crimes committed was essential in the fight against crime, the appropriateness of Watson’s campaign could be questioned.
She said the IMC wished to explore, with Watson, other ways in which attention could be drawn to the problem, without harming the perception of the country.
Watson could not be reached for comment.
The web page, expected to go online on July 4, would tell the stories of South Africans who have been victims of crime. It would include statistics and pictures and give people an opportunity to air their views.
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