BEREA police together with the Department of Community, Safety and Liaison hosted a Community Policing workshop at Greyville Racecourse's Sea Cottage Room over the weekend.
According to Captain TD Gumede, communications officer at Berea police, despite a low turnout from the community, the workshop was a success. “The Berea SAPS and CPF were honoured by the office of the Community Safety and Liaison who presented the CPF Workshop for us. This insightful workshop will go a long way in terms of assisting us in fighting crime that is affecting our area,” he said.
Mpume Ngcobogobe, assistant manager for Crime Prevention Management at the Department of Community, Safety and Liaison said, “The course or workshop basically outlines the role of community members that are involved in CPF, neighbourhood watches and other community crime prevention structures.
“In South Africa we have to always work and live within the law and Constitution of everyone having the right to safety and freedom. When we are faced with social issues like xenophobia or vagrant problems, we notice criminals using these social issues as an excuse to commit crimes. People need to be aware, alert and proactive when it comes to crime.”
According to Ngcobogobe, it is imperative that community members know their role, the role of police and the prosecution and judicial systems. “We want people to be safe and empowered on their rights. Even if its a small street committee, ward committee or neighbourhood watch, as long as you are working within the law to safeguard yourselves we are happy,” she added.
Ngcobogobe said the workshop was available to community crime structures around KZN.
