THE Kloof Community Police Forum elected a new chairman and vice chairman at its recently monthly meeting.
Former chairman, Dave Soane tendered his resignation as chairman due to changes in work circumstances which left him less time to perform his duties. Vice chairman, Corné Broodryk has now stepped up to the role of chairman and Bekela Maphumulo was voted in as vice chairman.
The Kloof Street patrols continue gaining success. A vehicle was recovered, lost laptop returned, remote jammers were deterred and a criminal apprehended by memers on patrol in recently weeks. Kloof has been divided into seven sectors each with its own patrol.
According to Broodryk, the average response time of the patrol teams is under ten seconds according which means they are getting to the site first and are able to call the relevant parties needed. Residents are reminded to keep their gates shut. “It amazes me that people still leave their gates open. Please close your gates,” said Broodryk.
In regards to the Camera Project, there are now seven cameras in operation and Kloof Police station commander, Captain Bheki Mpungose has an I-pad linked to these cameras so he can monitor activity in these areas. So far the cameras have been able to help compile a list of vehicles used to commit crime but it is now hoped that with the I-pad accessibility, that criminals can be intercepted and caught before they escape the area.
Captain Mpungose said police were struggling to control house breakings in Kloof. Hot spots were Fairview Road, Pioneer Road, Richmond Place and Maitime Centre. Most house robberies occurred in the early hours of the morning. He also cautioned FNB customers as one man was held up on his way to draw money and was forced to withdraw R35 000 for the robbers and another man was followed home from the bank and robbed at home. Remote jamming is still an area of concern with Village Mall still being a prime area. Footage after the crimes show the remote jammers either parked opposite their victim or on foot. Mpungose was hopeful the remote jammers were being deterred after patrols by police and the KCPF patrollers but still cautioned people to check their cars were locked and advised them not to leave valuables visible in the car.
Residents are asked to add any vacant properties to the vacant property list on Cllr Rick Crouch’s ward 10 site. (https://www.ward10.co.za/vacant_land_Results.asp). These areas are hotspots for criminals and squatters.
A letter was read out from Les Galloway expressing her gratitude to the KCPF and Kloof community for rallying around with support and help after the abduction of her husband, Bruce Galloway. “I have nothing but praise for the police officers and gratitude to you all”. The letter also stated that Bruce was recovering well from his ordeal. Broodryk said he had spoken to the investigating officer and that no foul play was involved and “they support the family 100 per cent.”
Drunken drivers leaving local watering holes was also an area of concern. The KCPF patrollers have spotted a number of drunken drivers weaving down the road, particularly in the St Agnes Church area. They are hoping to get Metro Police involved before there is a fatal accident.
The KCPF is looking for a company that can offer free gardening service for the Kloof Police Station. Contact the KCPF on info@kloofcpf.co.za.
