Patrol project goes from strength to strength
Over the years, the initiative has grown.
The Community Patrollers Initiative (CPI) in Van Dyk Park continues to make a difference, and not only in fighting crime.
According to chairperson Anton Botha, the initiative’s primary aim is to fight crime and help improve the community.
About 25 active patrollers volunteer as first responders to over 1 000 households to any crises the community may face – from crime to injuries and electricity issues to vehicle crashes.
“Volunteers use their own resources, like fuel and time. They put their lives on the line to help serve the community. Van Dyk Park now has one of the lowest crime rates,” explained Botha.
He said they work hand-in-hand with the Dawn Park SAPS, Brakpan Radio Group and security companies, such as Graphite Security and MKT Tactical.
“We believe in working together because we are all fighting the same fight.”
Over the years, the initiative has grown.
With the support of residents and donors, the CPI has set up a control room and cameras in hotspots, such as areas where cables get stolen regularly, and has 400 radios in homes in the area.
They recently also bought a firefighting trailer. Three houses burnt down in the area last year.
“This trailer will enable us to fight the blaze while we wait for the fire department to respond. Our chief patroller, Johan van den Heever, was a fireman for decades, so he has a lot of knowledge about firefighting,” said Botha.
The CPI also plans to buy a tractor to mow sidewalks and open spaces in the community.
“It is important to cut overgrown grass because it is a hiding spot for criminals. We cannot just stand back and let the area deteriorate,” he pointed out.
They also collect necessities to donate to underprivileged people, such as Blue Sky informal settlement residents, and organise social gatherings for senior citizens.
Moreover, Dave Venter from the CPI ensures the geese and ducks at a dam in the area get fed daily.
Angels
In doing more for the community, about eight patrollers have undergone first aid training sponsored by Andries and Athena from El Shaddai Oasis. However, they need medical kits.
This need is why resident Charlene Kotze wrote to Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels.
During Breakfast with Martin Bester on February 29, R25 000 was donated to the CPI by the Good Morning Angels Fund.
“We are thankful for the contribution. We did not expect it at all,” said Van den Heever.
The CPI expressed its gratitude to all those who support the initiative, including Ward 31 Clr Simangele Sabe, Dirk Lubbe and Dr Sam de Lange from Enon Family Church. They also appreciated Mall@Carnival showing interest in the CPI.
Community members Maria de Franca and Andre Visser expressed gratitude to the CPI for always being ready to help the public.
Botha said the CPI needs more members.
Anybody wanting to become involved may call Alida Jordaan on 083 424 7865.
Also Read: BAC mourns death of long-serving member
Also Read: Church recognises CPI members
