Mothibe calls on community to fight crime

Mr Godfrey Mothibe, the Cleveland Community Police Forum (CCPF) chairperson, said although national statistics recently released showed a decrease in crime in the precinct, more has to be done.

“The Cleveland SAPS has worked hard but the decreases are not as much as we would liked to have seen. Criminals are still operating freely and this has to be attended to. The community must stand together and fight crime. They must come forward with information,” he said.

Mr Mothibe said he is worried about the lack of interest some people have in fighting crime. He said certain sector forums, such as the Sector 3 Crime Forum, is run by dedicated people like Mr Mike Spadino, but residents do not attend meetings or show their support.

“Sector forums were established to deal with concerns on the ground. The meetings are attended by the sector managers. Crime is discussed at these meetings and people work together with the SAPS to combat crime. I am worried about the community in suburbs such as Malvern, where there seems to be a lack of interest. People must work together if they want to achieve something. You cannot continue complaining about crime but sit back and do nothing about it,” he said.

He said there are areas known for hijackings and theft of motor vehicles and, although there are people who have information, they fail to come forward.

“Sometimes people look at a crime and say it is a petty crime. They do not report it. These small crimes lead to bigger crimes. Let the police know about every crime. Think about your life. You never know when you will be a victim. You do not want to only realise the impact crime has when you are a victim. Do not let criminals walk over you. Let us get together and come up with solutions. The SAPS cannot do it on its own,” he said.

He commended the police officers who work tirelessly to arrest criminals but added that more measures must be put in place to rid the area of crime and grime.