Elandsfontein residents continue to live in fear as criminal syndicates tighten their grip on the area, prompting renewed calls for increased police presence and stronger community cooperation.
This follows a series of disturbing reports involving violent crimes, rampant cable theft, and illegal electricity connections plaguing the suburb.
Most recently, two bodies were discovered inside a car, further exacerbating residents’ fears and highlighting their growing distrust of law enforcement.
In a follow-up interview, Bedfordview SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Lillian Modiga and Vispol Commander Captain Thabo Mokoena addressed the concerns raised by residents and ward councillor Kade Guerreiro.
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The pair confirmed that murder cases in the area have significantly increased, and investigations are ongoing.
“The community knows who the suspects are, but many are too afraid to come forward. We continuously urge them to report anonymously,” said Modiga.
She confirmed that recent joint operations, including one targeting illegal electricity connections, had yielded some success but noted that policing efforts are hindered by limited resources.
Responding to concerns that some crimes go unreported due to the distance between Elandsfontein and the Bedfordview Police Station, Modiga said, “That’s an unfortunate reality. We’ve discussed the idea of organising a mobile police container, and we’re aiming to bring it in monthly since we don’t have one permanently.
“We currently have to borrow from other stations. As for a permanent satellite station, we can’t make any promises at this stage.”
While residents have repeatedly called for a permanent satellite police station, the police clarified that such a decision rests with the national office.
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Modiga urged the community to utilise existing sector patrol vehicles when reporting crime. “We have sectors 1, 2, and 3, each with patrolling vehicles.
“Residents can call 10111, and the JOC will dispatch officers to their area,” she explained.
Mokoena added, “This is a problem that affects almost all police stations. There’s usually only one station serving multiple areas.
“Our area is large, and even our national office is aware that this issue is widespread. Unfortunately, they cannot prioritise just our station. It requires funding.”
He further pointed out the dangers associated with satellite stations. “In some areas, these stations have been attacked,” said Mokoena.
To strengthen community engagement, SAPS Bedfordview has appointed a new sector manager to oversee Elandsfontein.
Mokoena stressed the need for collaboration. “We need the community. They are the eyes and ears of the police. We cannot win this fight alone,” he said.
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However, restoring trust remains a challenge. Some residents allege that certain officers may be colluding with criminals, which discourages whistleblowers.
They said such claims must be supported by evidence and encouraged residents to use safer methods of reporting if they fear reprisals.
“Take photos, note registration numbers, and report directly to the station commander or Vispol commander—your identity will be protected. You can even call anonymously from a private number and give details of the location where the crime is taking place,” Modiga said.
The police also acknowledged growing concerns regarding a suspected diesel syndicate operating openly during the day.
“There’s a lot of talk about it, but we haven’t received any concrete information. That’s why we’re appealing to the community to come forward, even anonymously.”
Community patrols, once active in the area, have reportedly dwindled.
“Some patrollers were accused of working with criminals, and that discouraged others.
“But we urge new volunteers to step up. We need patrollers from Elandsfontein and the Mabondeni informal settlements,” said the officers.
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Residents are encouraged to attend community meetings and participate in police-led crime prevention campaigns to play a more active role in the fight against crime.
Despite the numerous challenges, Bedfordview SAPS said they remain committed to conducting monthly mobile service visits, increasing visibility through sector patrols, and strengthening their partnership with the community.
Residents requiring urgent assistance are advised to call 10111 or contact Modiga on 071 111 0489 or Mokoena on 082 461 3629.
