CPF to bolster SAPS, community collaboration

The Dawn Park CPF recently held its election, which aligns with the national CPF five-year election cycle that coincides with the country’s general elections.

The new CPF leadership, headed by chairperson Bianca Zambetti, aims to strengthen collaboration between the community and the SAPS to enhance safety and prevent crime.

Zambetti said the election, organised by the Department of Community Safety, was part of a district-wide process that recently ended with the final induction held on October 20.

Goals

She highlighted the CPF’s commitment to community upliftment and praised the newly elected office bearers for their dedication.

“Many of the greater executive members were involved in remarkable community projects this year,” she noted.

“I am optimistic about the future of community policing under the leadership of Dawn Park station commander Lieutenant Colonel Sibushi Makgakga and acting Vispol Warrant Officer Eddie Mongalo.

“Their management style is dynamic and proactive. Our goal is to work hand in hand with SAPS, fostering a co-operative relationship that encourages residents to feel safe communicating with both the CPF and the police.”

The chairperson said the CPF’s recent success in resolving a two-week crime wave in sector one demonstrates the power of this collaboration.

She explained how the SAPS deployed officers swiftly, acting on real-time information shared by the CPF and the community.

“The issue was quickly resolved because the community felt safe communicating, and the SAPS responded efficiently,” she said.

Crime trends in Dawn Park

Zambetti emphasised the CPF’s mission to tackle crime comprehensively, not focusing on specific trends but aiming to address crime as a whole.

“Crime trends change constantly. Our objective is to prevent future crimes by fostering open communication and sharing information,” Zambetti said.

As the festive season approaches, she warned that crime typically spikes during this period, particularly around shopping centres.

“Be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity in as much detail as possible, whether to the CPF, community WhatsApp groups, or your neighbours,” she advised.

She also stressed the importance of reporting all crimes, no matter how small, because this helps the SAPS identify patterns and plan effectively.

“Even if you think it’s not worth it, opening a case is the only way to inform the SAPS and ensure they can address emerging trends.”

Her vision for the CPF is to build trust within the community and create an environment where people feel confident sharing information.

“Criminals live and socialise somewhere. People know things, and it’s our goal to create a space where they feel safe to speak up,” she said.

The CPF has already made strides in community engagement, with tangible results from recent projects where information shared by residents led to actionable outcomes for the SAPS.

“Stay alert, stay vigilant and look out for each other,” Zambetti concluded, reinforcing the message of collective responsibility and safety.

For more information or to become involved, residents can call the Dawn Park SAPS on 011 862 1117.

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