Glencoe residents make a stand against crime
"We take turns to do patrols at night and should we see anything or anyone suspicious, we immediately call the police. In one incident, we saw a suspicious vehicle cruising around"
Fed-up with ongoing crime, especially burglaries, Glencoe residents have banded together to form a neighbourhood watch and it is paying results.
Formed by concerned residents, Gerhard van der Wath and Douglas Lees, who have a background in security, the group is working closely with the Glencoe SAPS to ensure that everything they do is within the confines of the law.
“Homes were being constantly broken into – during the day, at night – while residents were there or out. We know the police cannot be everywhere and that is why we banded together to be the eyes and ears of the police,” said Douglas.
A recent meeting held in the town saw about 30 residents come together to discuss their modus operandi and were also addressed by Captain van Jaarsveld and Warrant Officer Ramgoolam who explained the importance of operating within the law.
The Glencoe SAPS are very positive about the neighbourhood watch.
“Of course we would like more members to come forward and assist with our patrols. It will ease our burden and make the town safer for everyone.”
“We take turns to do patrols at night and should we see anything or anyone suspicious, we immediately call the police. In one incident, we saw a suspicious vehicle cruising around. We called the police and within minutes a van was dispatched and the occupants of the vehicle questioned. So, yes, it is very positive.”
Douglas said there was already another neighbourhood watch operating and he explained that the two groups were working together for the good of the town.
“Of course we would like more members to come forward and assist with our patrols. It will ease our burden and make the town safer for everyone.”
He added that a donation of flashlights, reflective car door stickers and two-way radios would also make the group’s task easier. Anyone able to help can call Douglas at 082 441 4153 or Monique at 082 568 7834.
A WhatsApp group has also been created with 170 people already added. Police have confirmed that there has been a decline in reported burglaries since the neighbourhood watch was formed and are hopeful that with more community involvement, Glencoe will be a safer place for everyone.
More on Glencoe crime:
Glencoe crime: bad start to the New Year |
Glencoe police make huge dagga bust
Teenagers suspected of breaking into homes in Glencoe
