Hillcrest unites to fight crime
We will not tolerate criminals in Hillcrest, says station commander.
THE multiple incidents of house robberies in Hillcrest have made Col Thandeka Mbele, Hillcrest SAPS station’s commander, initiate a new strategy.
Hillcrest SAPS, in conjunction with community safety and liaison, security companies, Hillcrest residents, the CPF, neighbourhood watches and Crime Watch has united and formed a crime fighting team called Business Against Crime.
Mbele said, “As it is the start of a new year, we are also starting on a new page and implementing new strategies.
“Criminals needs to know that we will not tolerate them in this area, and those who try their luck here will face the consequences of their actions,” she said.
Mbele believes that with various stakeholders involved, this project will definitely be a success.
“Our aim is to see the crime stats decrease drastically in the area. 2014 was not a good year, there were so many cases of house robbery and it still continuing this year.”
The station commander said they are very concerned about the increase of beggars in the Hillcrest area.
“This year we will move them from this place – we have heard of many incidents in other areas where people get robbed by beggars.
“They start with minor crimes but it does not always end there, they move on to more serious crimes.”
Mbele’s plans for this year include increasing police visibility around the Hillcrest area.
The Business Against Crime team will be assigned with different tasks as each member will specialise in their area of expertise.
The team will meet once a every month for feedback and evaluation.
Mbele added that the doors are still open for anyone who would like to be part of this team. Contact Zandile Mbhele on 031 765 9124.
