CPF meeting sparks significant dialogue between the community and SAPS
While the gathering started on a tense note with residents raising serious concerns of the present crime in the areas, it evolved into a discussion centered on safety, accountability, and fostering mutual trust.
Tensions were high at Saturday’s Community Police Forum (CPF0 meeting where an alleged lack of police action in tackling rising crime in suburban areas.
While the meeting, held at Drakensberg Primary School, was an opportunity for residents and SAPS to discuss issues, it was poorly attended.
Areas focused on included Amiel Park, Hutten Heights, Pioneer Park, Schuinhoogte, Sunnyridge, and Signal Hill.
Belinda Ellor, CPF chairperson, encouraged residents to take the opportunity to voice their security concerns directly to the police.
This prompted residents to share their anxieties, ranging from traffic control issues to a rise in burglaries, the presence of vagrants, and the condition of abandoned houses.
The atmosphere was charged with frustration as community members gathered to voice their concerns over the perceived lack of police action regarding ongoing safety issues. Many expressed a strong belief that their safety and well-being were being compromised, citing insufficient response from law enforcement.
Lack of traffic control
The absence of traffic police on Victoria Road, an area known for frequent accidents, was high on the agenda with many referring to speeding drivers who recklessly ignore barrier lines.
There was a call for a stronger police presence to address this dangerous behaviour and ensure the safety of pedestrians. In response, traffic officials assured the meeting that visible patrols will be increased – in that area, with more frequent deployments of speed-tracking machines in high-risk areas like Victoria Road.
However, they urged motorists not to warn other motorists of speed traps as this undermines any effort to clamp down on offenders.
“We need to catch offenders in the act so they can be held accountable,” explained one traffic officer.
Another urgent issue raised was the presence of individuals who loiter near local tuckshops, with one resident naming the corner of Amethyst and Drakensberg Avenue as a ‘hotspot.’
These individuals were described as ‘spending long hours smoking and creating an uncomfortable environment. ‘Although no specific criminal activities were confirmed, some residents speculated that illegal dealings may ‘be on the go’.
Vagrants ‘should not be given money or food’
Another issue was the number of vagrants begging at traffic lights which is actively prohibited by local bylaws. When questioned about the lack of police action, officials explained that while several arrests had been made, the vagrants often returned to the same locations. Shifting some of the responsibility to residents, they added: “The community needs to stop giving them food or money. If they realize they are not receiving anything, they’ll eventually leave. The vagrants are not just SAPS, municipality or traffic problem but everyone’s problem.”
Abandoned buildings turn into crime havens
Residents highlighted how abandoned buildings and unfinished construction projects turn into criminal hideouts. Unkempt properties are ideal for storing stolen goods – particularly copper.
These eyesores were seen as magnets for illicit activity.
“Cases are just closed”
The perceived lack of police patrols was another significant topic of discussion.
Many residents complained that inadequate policing made them feel vulnerable.
One resident related how he was left ‘disheartened’ after SAPS had closed the case due to insufficient evidence after he had reported a break-in.
“We’re not sleeping, we’re scared,” the resident said, underscoring the heightened sense of fear within the community.
To defuse rising tensions, police representatives called for a renewed partnership with the community. They urged residents to be vigilant and proactive in reporting suspicious activities, even if these appeared trivial.
Such reports, they explained, would help law enforcement gather more accurate crime data and allocate resources more effectively.
“I advise you to keep your case number and record the name of the officer who responded to your call, along with the time. This way, we can track the progress of your case. I’ll even provide my personal number if necessary,” one officer said, emphasizing the importance of accountability and follow-through, ” one officer told the meeting.
Acknowledging the concerns about patrols, police assured residents that efforts were being made to increase visibility. However, they stressed that the success of these initiatives would depend on the cooperation of the community. By working together, residents and law enforcement could build a safer, more secure environment. The CPF encouraged residents to serve as the “eyes and ears” of the neighbourhood, reporting incidents without hesitation.
“The forum further encouraged residents to join their efforts in the fight against crime, reinforcing the importance of collective action in creating a safer community,” Ellor said.
“Renewal of vows”
The most poignant moment of the meeting was when Seargent Mazibuko of the Newcastle SAPS gave a hopeful vision for the future. He referred to the meeting as a “renewal of vows,” expressing his hope that it would mark the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between law enforcement and the community.
“Like it or not, the police and the community are married for better or for worse,” he remarked with a touch of humour, underscoring the importance of transparency, accountability, and mutual respect in building a foundation of trust.
As the meeting drew to a close, a sense of optimism began to take root with the SAPS committed to increasing engagement in the future, promising more frequent communication and a more visible police presence in the area.
Important contact information:
Belinda Ellor, CPF Chairman: 071 404 3575 Sector Commanders: Sgt. Zwane: 079 137 4364 and W/O Pillay: 083 560 3012
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