Residents of Wedela have chosen a group of enthusiastic new leaders for their Community Policing Forum (CPF) this week.

The elections, which took place at the Wedela Police Station, ran smoothly under the supervision of station commander Captain Wayne Pestana, Department of Community Safety repre-sentative Mzwakhe Khoba, and Lieutenant Colonel JC van der Merwe.

The newly elected leadership team is led by chairperson Naledi Ramaru and vice chairperson Zodwa Mde. Ntombizanele Gilanti will serve as the new secretary, with Tankiso Moorosi taking on the role of vice secretary.

Tshepo Kgotle is the new treasurer, and Samson Badala will serve as the public relations officer.

The committee is completed by additional members Noscelo Diko, Mkhokheli Mnkanunu, Vuyelwa Somama, and Zanele Nkontswana.

Ramaru, explained that the CPF’s main goal is to build a strong relationship between residents and the police, even though this can be a difficult task.

The forum plans to run crime prevention campaigns and help identify individuals involved in illegal activities. Ramaru also emphasised the importance of community-wide involvement.

“We want to involve all stakeholders, including shebeens, because that’s where crime starts, to be part of our CPF meetings,” Ramaru said.

In addition, the CPF wants to gather residents to participate in active patrolling and neighbourhood watches.

These safety measures are currently crucial for the Wedela community.

The area has recently been shaken by the stabbing of three young men, one of whom tragically died on his way to the hospital.

Wedela also struggles with a large number of illegal shebeens, as well as occasional burglaries and house robberies.