‘Colluding’ to curb crime in Newcastle

Since confirming the establishment of a new neighbourhood watch in Newcastle, AfriForum was asked the quintessential question: ‘What will they do differently?’

Safety Coordinator, Eugene van Aswegen issued a statement exclusively to the Newcastle Advertiser highlighting the unique approach AfriForum intended to take as the ‘new kid’ on the neighbourhood watch block.

“AfriForum offers structures and tools to communities to protect themselves in creating safer towns,” he said. “We believe in well-managed structures with trained leaders.”

Mr van Aswegen emphasised AfriForum’s support of platforms where the community and police could gather and discuss crucial strategies in the fight against crime.

“We support our neighbourhood watches and members with the necessary training, such as first aid, patrolling, the management of situations and anti-rape courses,” he claimed. “We assist our members with the necessary equipment, including two-way radios and first aid kits.”

AfriForum will ‘align’ themselves with visible policing operations, assessing each singular situation and adapting their approach where necessary.

“We were involved in mass patrol operations with the SAPS recently which was a great success. AfriForum is getting more requests from police to take part in visible patrols.”

The political powerhouse recently began consulting with organisations in and around Newcastle to form a community safety platform.

“It is our mission to involve the entire community,” he said.

Where the dreaded ‘terms and conditions’ were concerned, AfriForum management concluded the community would essentially decide ‘how much they want to contribute’.

“AfriForum branch members will contribute monthly and the funds will then be used within the community, as approved by branch management.”

The community applauded the initiative and welcomed AfriForum’s presence in Newcastle. However, only time will tell whether residents will reap the proverbial fruits of the organisation’s particular ‘plan of attack’.

For more information or to get involved, contact community safety representatives, David Cloete on 082 573 5834 or Schalk Scott on 082 806 7484.