In an unusual call for justice, Hatsalatladi residents have proposed that repeat offenders be deported to the United States to work in the fields for former president Donald Trump, or sent to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to plough fields and mould bricks.

The suggestion, made during a kgotla meeting this week, reflects growing frustration over what locals see as a justice system that enables criminals to offend repeatedly.

Residents told Molepolole North MP Arafta Khan that the courts’ continued practice of granting bail to habitual offenders has turned into “a fundraising activity” for the government, with little regard for public safety. They argued that offenders who are repeatedly arrested and released end up committing even more serious crimes, leaving communities living in fear.

“We are tired of seeing the same criminals walking around as if nothing happened. If our prisons are too full, then send them somewhere they can work, maybe Trump can use them, or they can go plough in the DRC,” one resident said.

Khan assured the residents that their grievances would be taken to Parliament for consideration, with the aim of influencing policies that address repeat offending and reform the bail system.