CPF patroller calls for stronger community involvement

A Norkem Park resident and dedicated Community Policing Forum (CPF) patroller says real crime prevention starts with residents taking responsibility for their own neighbourhoods.

Francois van den Bergh, who patrols Sector 1 in Norkem Park, believes visible community involvement is one of the most effective ways to deter crime.

“You cannot complain about the state of your environment if you aren’t willing to be part of the solution,” he said.

From logistics and military discipline to community safety

Van den Bergh, who has a background in logistics operations and prior service in the Navy, said his experience naturally prepared him for CPF work, where structure, discipline and alertness are essential.

His decision to join the Community Policing Forum was driven by a desire to create a safer environment for his family and neighbours.

He said both his professional background and military training reinforced values of vigilance and responsibility, which now guide his patrol duties.

Visible patrols as a crime deterrent

According to van den Bergh, one of the most important aspects of CPF work is the “force multiplier” effect of visible patrols in the community.

“Knowing that our presence as patrollers creates a deterrent that SAPS can’t always provide alone is incredibly rewarding. Seeing a decrease in incidents in our sector is the best reward,” he said.

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Patrollers monitor vulnerable points such as open gates, poor lighting and suspicious activity, while maintaining constant communication with other members.

“We stay in constant radio contact, essentially acting as the eyes and ears for the police while everyone else is asleep,” he explained.

Working alongside SAPS and the community

The CPF works closely with the South African Police Service, helping to improve local awareness and early identification of potential threats.

Van den Bergh said CPF members are often the first to pick up on risks before they escalate into criminal incidents.

“We are the first line of defence in identifying risks before they turn into crimes,” he said.

He added that the role requires strict discipline and an understanding of legal boundaries.

“A good member needs to be reliable, calm under pressure, and have the integrity to represent the CPF with professional conduct at all times,” he said.

Volunteer-driven effort with real impact

Van den Bergh stressed that CPF patrollers are volunteers who use their own time, vehicles and fuel to help protect their communities.

“We are your neighbours. We use our own vehicles, fuel and personal time because we care about our community,” he said.

He added that small gestures from residents often reinforce the value of their work.

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“When a resident flashes their porch lights in thanks or says they feel safer seeing patrol vehicles, it shows our presence is making a difference,” he said.

Building stronger community unity

Beyond crime prevention, van den Bergh said his involvement has strengthened his sense of community and connection with fellow patrollers.

“My fellow patrollers are like my extended family,” he said.

He encouraged residents to support local safety efforts by staying alert, reporting suspicious activity and securing their homes.

“A hardened house makes the whole sector safer,” he said.

Call for more volunteers

Van den Bergh urged more residents to get involved in CPF initiatives, saying community safety depends on participation.

“You don’t need a specific background, just a willing heart and a commitment to your neighbourhood,” he said.

Looking ahead, he hopes to see Norkem Park become a safer, more united community where criminal activity is deterred by strong local cooperation.

“I want our streets to be a place where families feel truly at home again,” he said.