There will be no members of the Community Policing Forum (CPF) in Randfontein patrolling the streets as of midnight. CPFs from across the country have been stopped in their tracks as they are not deemed an ‘essential service’.

According to an official statement issued by Zaheer Gangat, Randfontein CPF chairperson, they have been instructed to stand down during the 21-day lockdown period.

“Good evening community of Randfontein. On behalf of the CPF we want to wish everyone well during this very difficult time and wish everyone good health. We as CPF were instructed to stand down during this 21-day lockdown as we are not deemed an essential service as per the regulations.

“We will therefore have no patrols after 11.59 tonight (Thursday, 26 March). We will try to keep people informed as per the info at our disposal as best we can. In the case of an emergency the SAPS numbers are 011 767 2300 or call 10111. This is an unfortunate time and we wish all well over this time.”

The announcement will surely not go down well in the community as the CPF has played a major role in fighting and preventing crime alongside the Randfontein Police. WhatsApp users immediately reacted with anger following the news.

In an interview with the Herald in 2018, Gangat emphasised the role of the CPF. Click here:

VIDEO: What is the role of the CPF?