Ward 39 Clr Jean Ingram recently hosted a community crime engagement meeting over safety concerns in the area.

The meeting saw a disappointing turnout despite the pressing challenges facing residents, raising questions about community participation in issues that directly affect safety and well-being.

Those who did attend, however, used the platform to voice serious concerns ranging from crime and illegal trading to public disorder and by-law violations.

Sector commander warrant officer Ambrose from SAPS emphasised the importance of community involvement in crime prevention.

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He urged residents to report all criminal activities, noting that law enforcement can only act on formally reported information.

“Crime is happening everywhere, but without reports and evidence, it becomes difficult to investigate and secure convictions,” he said.

He also encouraged communities to organise themselves by electing area leaders who can act as liaisons with SAPS, while warning residents about the rise in online scams, particularly fake sales and fraudulent payment requests.

“People are losing money because they trust deals that seem convenient. Always verify, and rather go directly to your bank when in doubt,” warned Ambrose.

He highlighted the challenges faced by SAPS in policing the Elsburg area, which spans approximately 42m².

With limited resources and only a handful of officers currently active, he acknowledged the strain on policing but reassured residents that additional recruits will be deployed after their pass-out in November.

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Residents raised a wide range of concerns, including:
• Public drinking, fighting, and street urination.
• Allegations of drug dealing linked to undocumented immigrants
• Illegal trading and the proliferation of scrap yards
• Hijacked and illegally occupied buildings
• Homeless individuals occupying vacant properties
• Concerns over water wastage and road damage caused by the increasing number of car wash businesses

Some residents also expressed frustration and a loss of faith in the system, citing slow responses to minor crimes and perceptions of inaction. Others called for establishing a satellite police station to improve visibility and response times in the area.

In response, SAPS acknowledged these concerns, reiterating that while arrests are being made, change will not happen overnight. They stressed stronger collaboration between SAPS, EMPD, and the community, particularly in enforcing by-laws and addressing illegal activities.

Ingram echoed these sentiments, acknowledging both the seriousness of the issues raised and the constraints faced by law enforcement.

“The concerns raised by residents are valid and important. At the same time, SAPS is operating under significant resource limitations while serving a very large area. We must recognise their efforts and continue to support them,” she said.

She committed to facilitating a joint engagement between SAPS and EMPD to ensure a more coordinated approach to tackling crime and by-law infringements.

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She also stressed that community participation remains a critical component in improving safety.

“Crime cannot be addressed if it is not reported. Residents must play their part by working with law enforcement and sharing information,” she added.

While the meeting highlighted deep frustrations within the community, it reinforced one key message: safer neighbourhoods require collective effort, accountability, and consistent engagement from all stakeholders.

As Ward 39 continues to grapple with these challenges, the hope remains that stronger partnerships among residents, law enforcement, and local authorities will pave the way for safer, more orderly communities.