Storms leave CPF in communication black-out
Repairs to the system will ensure effective communication between patrollers
Recent storms have resulted in the damage of the Benoni CPF’s critical communication infrastructure, leaving the organisation scrambling for funds to get back online.
According to Melanie Kruger, CPF spokesperson, repeaters situated in Northmead, the CBD as well as near the Willowmore Stadium, were damaged during the thunderstorms, which uprooted trees and led to branches barricading roads.
“These repeaters enable us to remain in two-way contact with all our patrollers throughout the city thus ensuring quick response to our community,” she said.
“Since the repeaters are not currently operational, we are relaying on cellular communication as well as WhatsApp groups, however, these platforms are highly unreliable during load-shedding.
“Calls for assistance may go unanswered due to networks not connecting calls or message delivery being delayed.”
Repairs to the CPF’s communication system have been estimated at R17 000.
“We are appealing to local businesses and residents to assist us in raising funds for repairs to be concluded as soon as possible,” said Kruger.
“The sooner this is done, the sooner our patrollers will be in a position of once again receiving real-time information.”
Donations can be made directly to the CPF:
FNB cheque account, account name Benoni Police Station Community, account number 62090299481, branch code 250112
For more information, contact Kruger on 084 244 7424.
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