YCPF Sector 3 meets and elects new chairperson
A number of issues were discussed, including that of sex workers operating in Francis Street.
The Yeoville Community Police Forum’s (YCPF) Sector 3 held a meeting on Thursday, May 15, at the Observatory Golf Club.
The meeting began with a recap of the minutes from the previous meeting, which was held in early February.
A number of issues were discussed, including that of sex workers operating in Francis Street. Residents related stories of their run-ins with the sex workers. Some residents claimed the sex workers threatened them, after some residents request the sex workers leave their driveways.
Constable Kenneth Mukwevho, the head of Sector 3, reassured residents that something was being done about the problem.
“We do have a special patrol team in the area. They drive around in an unmarked vehicle for a reason. They are there to ensure such matters are attended to,” said Const Mukwevho.
He added that he is available on the Sector number at any time of the day, should residents need assistance.
Some residents shared Const Mukwevho’s sentiments, agreeing that there was increased police visibility in the area.
The issue of police response times was also discussed.
Mr Thabo Thipe, from the Gauteng Department of Community Safety, was in attendance at the meeting.
He was concerned about allegations in which residents claimed police officers did not respond to calls or messages because of insufficient airtime.
He said the department needs to sort that out. “Such things cannot be the responsibility of the sector head alone. There must be somebody to oversee that,” said Mr Thipe.
Next on the agenda was the election. The outgoing chairperson, Mr Keith Peacock, chaired the meeting and dealt with the nominations before announcing that he would not stand for a re-election.
The nominees were asked about their availability before the election took place. Each position was contested and the voting was done through a show of hands.
Mr Jerome Correa was elected the chairperson of the Sector 3 YCPF and Mr Ace Maunatlala was elected as his deputy.
Mr Joseph Dube was elected as the secretary of the YCPF sector and Ms Mellanie van der Byl will be the Deputy Secretary.
Mrs Kathy Munro was elected as the public relations officer and the four additional committee members are Ms Shenaaz Nakhooda, Mr Thomas Mann and Mr Karl Westhuizen. @JoburgJourno
