Vryheid Neighbourhood Watch – Know your neighbour

A public feedback meeting was held on June 3 at Risen Son Academy by Vryheid Neighbourhood Watch.

Current Chairman, Gavin Minott, welcomed all who attended and gave a brief description of the Neighbourhood Watch and its role in the community, emphasizing the fact that a Neighbourhood Watch does not take over the job of the police nor of established security companies, but instead works together with these organisations to act as their eyes and ears by patrolling through town.

Each member, upon being introduced, gave a brief summary of their role within the organisation and representatives of the court, SAPS, Link Up Security and Pro5 were present to offer tips and advice regarding safety and security. They highlighted the fact that, while security companies have an important role to play in responding to emergency situations, safety should remain the priority of the individual and civilians should not offer criminals any opportunity gain the advantage. These organisations commended the Neighbourhood Watch on what they referred to as an excellent job in keeping crime levels down in Vryheid.

After introducing the different sector leaders, Patrol Commander, Adriaan Botha, discussed several key points regarding crime, pointing out that housebreaking has become a common occurrence between 10:00am and 7:00pm, as criminals find their way around the Neighbourhood Watch presence at night. Teams will now also patrol on Sundays, as this has become a popular day for activity among thieves and burglars in Vryheid.

Botha touched on a few other points as well, discussing the instances of vehicle remote ‘jamming’ in parking lots and public awareness. He also discussed safety at home, being vigilant and knowing your neighbours. Common sense dictates that valuables should not be left visible, either in vehicles or out in the garden where they could be swiped by opportunistic kleptomaniacs.

In case of an emergency, the Neighbourhood Watch can be contacted on 087 808 3508.