Yeoville SAPS reviews 2013

The Yeoville SAPS have taken some time to reflect on the highs and lows of 2013.

The communications officer for the Yeoville SAPS, Constable Thabo Malatji, said they viewed the year with mixed feelings.

“The year was a good one, with decreases in certain crimes but some crimes did increase. Crimes such as theft out of motor vehicles were problematic, but we are pleased that murder went down,” said Const Malatji.

He said the decrease in murder could be attributed to increased visibility and programmes from the social crime prevention and Community Police Forum. “We adopted an open-door policy and improved communication with the public. We also engaged other stakeholders,” said Const Malatji. He added that more members of the community are coming forward to report any illegal activities in the area. According to Const Malatji, public meetings with the community and the involvement of other role players helped in their fight against crime.

“We are happy with our arrest rate, however there is still room for improvement. With the help of the community, we will make more arrests,” said Const Malatji.

Among the convictions this year, was a 90 year sentence for armed robbery and the possession of an unlicensed firearm.

“We are also seeing improved public participation and that leads to a reduction in crime,” said Const Malatji. He said the community should continue reporting crime and take an active stand in the fight against crime.

“We closed all the known, illegal, shebeens and scrap metal dealers. There is more visibility and we conduct random stop-and-searches during our patrols,” said Const Malatji.

He urged the public to take an active stand against crime. He also encouraged residents to participate in all crime-prevention related projects.

“Let’s all stand together during the 16 Days of Activism Against Women and Child abuse. Let us fight the scourge and unite, so that we can achieve more,” said Const Malatji.