Community safety stakeholders joined forces in Glencoe last week as part of an ongoing strategy to enhance cooperation in the fight against crime.

The Department of Community Safety and Liaison (DCSL), together with Glencoe SAPS, hosted the external crime-fighting workshop at Sithembile Hall on October 23. The session aimed to improve coordination, knowledge sharing, and capacity building among community structures that work alongside the police.

Community partnerships remain key

The event opened with a prayer by Pastor Zulu, followed by an introduction by Captain Maseko.
Delivering the purpose of the workshop, Mrs Jabu Mkhize from DCSL emphasised the importance of involving community structures such as the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and Community in Blue.

“These partnerships are essential to ensure that communities remain safe and active participants in crime prevention,” she said.

The Acting Detective Commander presented an overview of crime trends in the Glencoe area, noting a decline in theft-related crimes, though housebreaking and theft remain a concern.

Empowering citizens through awareness

Mrs Mkhize discussed the legislative framework guiding community safety, referencing Section 12 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom and security. She highlighted that active community participation strengthens local safety efforts.

She also educated attendees about the criminal justice system, explaining the roles of police, the judiciary, and correctional services.
Mkhize encouraged sub-forums to conduct regular crime awareness campaigns and practical projects such as Operation Siyabaphelezela, where Community in Blue members escort early-morning commuters — especially elderly residents collecting social grants.

She also urged communities to raise awareness about cybercrime, as online scams increasingly target older citizens.

Building safer communities together

During a question session, the District Acting VISPOL Compliance Officer assured attendees that new equipment will soon be issued and that training workshops will be held to ensure its proper use.

Stakeholders included the CPF, Youth Crime Prevention Desk (YCPD), Community in Blue, Hlangana Zulu, and both Station and District CPF chairpersons.

“The workshop proved highly fruitful and empowering, reflecting the commitment of all involved to building a safer Glencoe,” said SAPS spokesperson, Constable Siyabonga Nkwanyana.

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