Residents braved the winter chill to attend the Brakpan CPF Combined Sectors Meeting, where police, municipal representatives and community leaders addressed crime trends, service delivery concerns and the importance of public participation in crime prevention.

The meeting, held on June 9 at Dalpark Independent School, was hosted by CPF Sector Four chairperson Jessy Naicker and supported by members of the sector committee.

Also in attendance were Brakpan SAPS station commander Brigadier Johanna Ngoma, Vispol commander Colonel Robert Makopo, crime intelligence head Captain Pieter Booysens and Sector Three manager Sergeant Elvis Mashifane.

Brakpan CPF chairperson Tinus Jordaan was also among the attendees, together with Sector One chairperson Simon Mabuse.

Other stakeholders included Freedom Front PR Clr Riaan Van Zyl and representatives from the EMPD.

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“Community members braved the cold weather and attended the meeting that was held with the intent to engage in discussions, and for the community to voice their concerns directly to authorities,” said Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi.

“The meeting was also aimed at introducing the CPF sector board members, SAPS sector managers, EMPD representatives, and councillors to the public, fostering a sense of transparency and accountability.

“This is where awareness about crime and community-related issues are raised, encouraging community members to partake and contribute to the resolution of these concerns.”

Police presented a crime overview, and publicly applauded the detectives branch for securing convictions.

Community members were encouraged to join the informer programme, which was thoroughly explained.

Services rendered at the police station were highlighted, and the public was also informed about the Rate My Service table inside the Community Service Centre.

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Ngoma condemned corruption by SAPS members and advised community members to report corruption to authorities. Channels of reporting were also provided.

She further highlighted that the SAPS and Department of Home Affairs Immigration office, in collaboration with other stakeholders, are continuously conducting operations, and undocumented people are being arrested during those operations.

She discouraged community members from taking the law into their hands with the “Abahambe” (they must go) actions, citing that it is an opportunity for others to loot and perform unlawful acts.

Van Zyl explained by-laws and emphasised that members of the public should familiarise themselves with municipal reporting channels, and they should report and follow-up on issues related to service delivery.

Jordaan encouraged community members to join the CPF and become part of the solution to crime prevention. Naicker cited that the presentation on crime was very informative, and community members provided positive feedback.

He further thanked the stakeholders for their efforts and presence, and to community members who made the meeting a success.

“The meeting facilitated the resolution of concerns, problems, and complaints from the public regarding policing and service delivery, ensuring both are addressed effectively. It serves as a feedback mechanism,” said Buthelezi.

“The SAPS encourages community members to attend and participate in CPF meetings because they are a community-driven initiative aimed at enhancing communication, cooperation, problem-solving and, ultimately, contributing to a safer and more equitable environment.”