However, it is necessary to differentiate “governing through crime” from “governing crime”. “Governing crime” is essentially an obligation for the state and institutions – to respond to necessary situations if a threat arises (Simon, 2007, p.5). Criminal justice institutions have roles to play in developing necessary strategies to intervene and ensure that the country is safe from threats. However, if the state or institutions develop counter-measures that are disproportionate to the threat posed, such strategies can be deemed as “governing through crime” (Simon, 2007). Such distinctions are vital when identifying whether the state is truly threatened by crime, or merely using crime to advance strategies of governance. Responses based on the
