Two arrests and applause for project

Criminals will feel the strong arm of justice.

This is the promise the Safe CBD project has made to residents as the festive season approaches.

Having been re-launched this month, the first arrests of the group, in partnership with the police have been made.

In the past two weeks, the organisation and businessmen arrested two suspects.

The first is believed to have been a remote jammer and was allegedly caught while trying to break into a car.

“A businessman spotted him in his attempt and with the help of other shopkeepers and the guards, managed to hold him until the police arrived,” said organisation Chairman, Yousuf Randeree.

The second suspect was arrested during his getaway after allegedly attempting to steal a necklace.

The project’s guards gave chase and apprehended the suspect before he could escape.

Community members witnessing the scene, shouted profanities and attempted to attack the suspect because they were fed-up with criminals taking what was not rightfully theirs.

“Every time we make an arrest, the people in the vicinity want to attack the suspects. We try and avoid this. We want to do this by the book. The more statistics that the police have, the more funds will be granted to them to increase patrols in the area,” stated Mr Randeree.

It must be noted that when suspects are chased down or apprehended, there is often a scuffle, but the suspect remains in custody thanks to the strong arm of justice.

During a recent meeting, Portfolio Councillor of Economic Planning and Development Matthew Shunmugam, applauded the initiatives taken to clean up crime from the CBD.

“Partnering with both businesses and the police will be an ideal way to eradicate crime from the CBD. This will lead to boost the economy of Newcastle, and help people enjoy the amenities offered within the CBD,” he said.

With the imminent festive season, Safe CBD has promised to do its best to help Newcastle shoppers have a peaceful and safe shopping experience.