Col Justus Geustyn has been appointed as the new station commander at Bedfordview SAPS where he aims to use his 30 years experience to achieve success.
“I have been a uniformed officer all of my life,” said Geustyn who was born and raised in Springbok, Namaqualand, where he became a police officer in 1984.
“I was later transferred from Springbok to Alberton as a warrant officer in 1988, where I began my career on the East Rand,” said Geustyn.
He was transferred to Edenvale SAPS in 1991 and later became station commander in Primrose and then Brackendowns.
For the last 12 years he has been the station commander in Eden Park.
“Being a station commander is not very different from station to station. The area is different. I know Bedfordview well as I have been working on the East Rand for many years. I also obtained great insight from previous station commanders in Bedfordview.”
He aims to work closely with Bedfordview community and Bedfordview Community Police Forum (BCPF).
“I will regularly be meeting with the BCPF, as well as host sub forums in the different sectors. I trust my communication and social crime prevention teams will work with me to fully serve the community,” said Geustyn.
He said the community is the eyes and ears of the police, and the station cannot police without them, although accurate information is key.
“It is very important to know the disadvantages of social media when it comes to crime in a community. Information needs to be factual and true before being posted online. We are here to verify this information,” said Geustyn.
He said each crime incident reported is important. “If a person’s bicycle is stolen, it is just as important to us to treat the person the exact same way we would treat a person whose expensive motor vehicle has been stolen. It will be investigated the same way,” said Geustyn.
“I have an open door policy. I aim to keep the things that are working at the station as is and change the things that are not working.”
Geustyn urged the community to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.
“I will not tolerate any criminal activity or corruption in the area or at the station. They will be dealt with,” said Geustyn.
Geustyn would like the community and the station to work together.
“When we do well, say thank you. When we don’t, let us know so we can change it. Let us respect each other This way we can work together for a greater Bedfordview,” said Geustyn.
