TZANEEN – Residents of Modjadjiskloof and Sekgope were alarmed to learn that their two police stations share just one patrol vehicle to cover their vast policing area.

The issue came to light during a community meeting held on Sunday, June 22, at the Hervormde Kerk hall in Modjadjiskloof, which was packed with concerned residents.

The meeting, prompted by a surge in crime, was attended by members of the Modjadjiskloof Community Police Forum (CPF), the local Neighbourhood Watch, and officers from the Modjadjiskloof SAPS.

However, representatives from the district and provincial police were unable to attend due to prior commitments, although they were informed of the meeting and plan to follow up.

Riaan Swart, chairperson of the Modjadjiskloof sub-CPF, expressed deep concern over the lack of resources and community support.

“We face serious challenges patrolling this area. Very few people are willing to volunteer for the CPF or Neighbourhood Watch due to fears for their safety,” Swart said.

“When we apprehend a suspect, we often have to wait a long time for the police to arrive. During that wait, we are unarmed and vulnerable. Anything could happen,” he added. Swart also highlighted the lack of reflector vests, which makes it difficult to identify fellow members during night patrols.

He expressed disappointment that the provincial police commissioner and the municipal manager of the Greater Letaba Municipality were absent.

“Some of these issues required their direct attention, but at least our concerns have been voiced,” he said.

Residents were given an opportunity to ask police officers questions, with most queries focussed on the long police response times, the effectiveness of the police hotline, and how citizens should protect themselves in emergencies.

One Neighbourhood Watch member shared a troubling story: “There was a break-in at a home around 22:00. We called the police immediately, and they told us not to touch anything for fingerprints. They only arrived the next day at 17:00, and they didn’t even take fingerprints, just a statement.”

Another resident said they once tried to report a crime at 21:00, only to find the police station gates locked. They had to hoot repeatedly to get attention.

Despite the urgency of the issues raised, police officers at the meeting were unprepared to respond to the issues. Most of the concerns were noted for further discussion.

Constable Elliot Mabulane of Modjadjiskloof SAPS assured residents that a follow-up meeting would be scheduled soon.

“The date for a meeting to address all the issues raised will be communicated in due course to the CPF chairperson, Caiphus Mohale, and leaders of the sub-forums in Modjadjiskloof and surrounding areas,” he said.