A new safety mobile app has been launched in a bid to make the Hatfield precinct and its surroundings safer for residents and students alike.
The free app, called #MyHatfield, comes at a time where “car jump” robberies and other crimes such as false prophets looking to make a quick buck off unsuspecting students are plaguing the precinct, with mostly students being the victims.
The app can be downloaded on Google Play Store and App Store.
ALSO READ: LISTEN: East ‘car jump robberies’ on the rise
Hatfield city improvement district (CID) COO, Danie Basson said #MyHatfield was aimed at bringing convenience to the Hatfield precinct and is free of charge.
One of its primary benefits includes a channel to speedily report crime, or any other issues within the precinct.
It also has various emergency contact numbers.
“I think if we work as a collective, involving residents and not working in isolation, working with the SAPS and Tshwane metro police, we can try to put a safety package in Hatfield.”
He said property owners and businesses had contributed to urban upliftment.
The most important aspect of this was security, CCTV and liaising with other companies on how to enhance safety.
He said this required a collective approach from security shareholders.
ALSO READ: Student sentenced for Hatfield cellphone robbery
He urged students to heed the tips given.
“We also work with the SRC and they must check their newspapers as there are often tips. But they must also take a serious approach by trying to be vigilant.
“The robberies taking place in Hatfield recently are worrying and if the students try to be more vigilant, [the number of robberies] can drop.”
Councillor Anru Meyer said #MyHatfield is a great initiative “especially in this day and age in the 21st century, where the industrial revolution is upon us and we are in a technological world”.
“This is one of the first initiatives in the city that has been launched by our partners … they have done outstanding work and the app will be developed further to enhance its features and capabilities to make it more user-friendly, not only for Hatfield but the city.
“One interesting feature I like is that users can send enquiries, complaints and city-related issues that may arise and affect them or their children to the relevant authorities for further action.”
He said #MyHatfield was a good thing because of the various concerns residents had in the city.
ALSO READ: Pretoria students warned as police nab ‘prophet’
“I believe this app is a great advancement that needs to be placed out there so more people can get involved and get people connected with each other and the city and enhance their safety.
“I want to encourage residents and students to make use of this app and send in suggestions,” said Meyer.
Police spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach said the Hatfield CID was one of Brooklyn police’s valued partners in the fight against crime.
“Forces are united with the Hatfield CID, the University of Pretoria, the Tshwane metro police department, private security companies and car guards to ensure that Hatfield is and feels safe for all.”
She said any additional contribution to the safety of Hatfield would always be welcomed by the Brooklyn SAPS.
ALSO READ: Central police nabs 53 people for various crimes
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
