CPF patrollers demand answers from MEC

Kwa-Thema – CPF patrollers have demanded answers from the MEC of Community Safety Faith Mazibuko.
The MEC met with local CPF patrollers on Tuesday, at the EMPD Academy, to address unresolved issues pertaining to the deployment of patrollers, leadership, uniforms, payment and corruption.
Patrollers claim they were promised 12 months deployment at schools but that was not fulfilled as many allege they held the positions for a shorter period.
Lack of solid leadership is also causing a rift within the local structure.
The out-going patrol commander in Kwa-Thema, Njabulo Mbonani, who is also councillor of Ward 79, said being elected as a councillor resulted in the position becoming vacant.

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“No proper handover has been done yet. As such patrollers do not really know to whom they must direct queries.
“For that I do empathise with them since they are the ones who are suffering,” said Mbonani.
He then stressed that patrollers need to understand that being a patroller is voluntary and that it is not a permanent job.
“This work is about serving the community to eradicate crime, working hand-in-hand with the police.
“When they join the forum, it is stated that the position is voluntary, meaning working without any pay, though there is the incentive they receive for attending the training,” he added.

The MEC refused to comment as she said the allegations made are not under her department.
The structures will be meeting again next week Wednesday as they continue to attempt to resolve the issues raised by the members.
The meeting was also attended by the chairperson of the Community Police Board for Ekurhuleni North, Andrew Mosesi.

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