Alexandra police say a functional Community Policing Forum (CPF) is essential to address crime effectively and build a strong relationship with residents.

Police management met with community members at the Alexandra Police Station today to address concerns outlined in a 22-point memorandum submitted two days ago.

Read more: Bramley CPF schedule AGM

Central to the discussion was the number of competing community organisations operating under different leaders, which community leader Midlaas Dikobo attributed to political ties.

Visible Policing Commander Colonel Jerry Phaswana emphasised the need for a recognised CPF structure to serve as a direct link between police and residents.

Community structure essential for local policing

Resident Ron Thobejane agreed that a CPF could unify the community and address existing divisions.

Police confirmed that no official CPF structure currently exists in Alexandra. Previous attempts to elect a committee failed due to low voter turnout.

Dikobo called for the reinstatement of the previous CPF, which was disbanded in July, claiming crime has increased since its dissolution. However, he provided no statistical evidence to support his claims.

Phaswana explained that police cannot reinstate the former committee because only the community has the authority to elect a CPF.

Patrollers must register under an official structure.

Also read: CPF commends residents for reporting crime

Both police and community representatives agreed that crime prevention is a shared responsibility.

Responding to calls from residents and local patrollers for official recognition, Phaswana stated that patrollers must be registered under a CPF and undergo police vetting, including fingerprint background checks.

Phaswana urged residents to unite, establish the CPF, and register local patrollers so police can formally recognise their efforts.

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