Stop sensationalising crime - Jordaan

Addressing reporters on Monday, 22 June 2009, in Johannesburg, Dr Jordaan said the media had created unnecessary anxiety among the international community regarding safety and security issues in South Africa.

He added that the media should report the facts and not compile reports on unfounded information, adding that all security measures for the FIFA Confederations Cup have been executed successfully thus far.

"I have been to many World Cup tournaments across the globe and there's no difference with what is currently taking place in South Africa.

"In terms of safety and security, everything is running smoothly and no major crime related incidents were reported, but you (media) create unfounded stories," he said.

Since the kick-off of the FIFA Confederations Cup, the international media have shown no confidence in South African security measures, particularly after five Egyptian players were allegedly robbed in their hotel.

However, the CEO said the issue of Egypt is perplexing, and police are investigating the matter, adding that people must also take responsibility of their own security.

"If you invite someone to your hotel room, you have to take responsibility. Police cannot follow you to your room, you have to take responsibility.

"In guaranteeing a safe environment, people need to partner with the police. The perception about Egyptian players must not be exaggerated, let the police provide us with the full legal and factual report.

"You must not generalise. Judge us on factual incidents, judge us with what had happened not on the hearsay evidence," said Dr Jordaan, urging the international media to treat South Africa with dignity.

Dr Jordaan said all teams were satisfied with the standard of security and hospitality, adding that FIFA President Sepp Blatter has also shown satisfaction with the level of preparedness of the FIFA Confederations Cup.

He said the LOC would evaluate the problems and solutions, particularly with regard to transportation, adding that the committee will learn from challenges experienced during the tournament, and work on them to improve during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Police, Fikile Mbalula, said government was impressed with the service of the police thus far, adding that with regard to the tournament, police have successfully executed their mission.

He said the security has been intact, adding that with at least three more matches remaining to be played, there had been reports of isolated minor incidents, but there has been no major security breach at any of the games played.

Article published courtesy of BuaNews