Norkem Park CPF chairperson urges residents to join community safety efforts
Being a patroller has made him more aware, connected and responsible.
Willem du Plessis, chairperson of Norkem Park CPF Sector 1, says his journey into community policing began after seeing how crime affected people close to him.
Instead of only voicing concerns, he decided to become part of the solution.
“I felt a responsibility to step up,” said du Plessis.
“Safety isn’t just the police’s job.”
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Du Plessis says what keeps him motivated is the impact the CPF makes, the teamwork involved, and seeing the results of their efforts on the ground.
“Being part of the CPF means I’m actively contributing instead of standing on the sidelines,” he said.
He explained that no two patrols are the same, with teams using different approaches to deter crime, including visible patrols and coordinated operations with SAPS.
“By being visible, working as a team, and staying connected to the community, we help reduce opportunities for crime before it happens,” he said.
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For du Plessis, the most meaningful moments come from being able to assist people in difficult situations.
“Whether it’s during an emergency or just offering support at an accident scene, knowing I am making a difference is what I enjoy most,” he said.
He acknowledged that challenges remain, including time constraints, difficult situations and limited resources.
He, however, said teamwork, communication and community support help overcome these obstacles.
Du Plessis recalled several moments that left a lasting impression on him, including reuniting a lost child with their family and supporting a woman who had been involved in a vehicle accident until help arrived.
“Every situation has something I will always remember,” he said.
He added that volunteering as a patroller has changed his perspective on the community.
“You see both the challenges and the good in people. It really changes how you view your community,” he said.
Norkem Park CPF also works with organisations such as Edleen Jars of Hope and Batho Pele Charity to strengthen community support networks.
Du Plessis said strong communication and teamwork across different backgrounds are essential skills for anyone involved in community safety.
“Showing up regularly and staying committed over time makes the real difference,” he said.
Balancing CPF duties with work and family life is not always easy, but he said planning and support make it possible.
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“My family’s support is a big part of why I can do this,” he said.
“Without it, it would be difficult.”
He highlighted several safety initiatives in Sector 1, including the Buzzer SOS App, which allows residents to report emergencies, suspicious activity and request medical assistance, supported by CPF patrollers and community role players.
They also promote GuardianLink ICE wristbands, which provide emergency and medical information to first responders when a person is unable to communicate.
Du Plessis stressed that community safety requires collective effort.
“The community is the eyes and ears. It’s a team effort,” he said.
He encouraged residents to get involved in CPF structures and community patrols.
“The more patrollers we have, the greater the area coverage,” he said. “It’s about teamwork, responsibility and serving others.”
Looking ahead, Du Plessis hopes for a safer and more united community.
“Crime will always be there, but if residents and patrollers work together, we can create an environment where everyone feels secure and supported,” he said.
