Akasia community to tackle crime
“You are only as safe as your neighbour allows you to be.”
Know your neighbour and get involved with your CPF, was the topic of a community meeting held in Akasia recently.
This meeting was spurred by a recent rise in complaints of crime in the area.
A large crowd of residents in Akasia, north of Pretoria, gathered at the Wonderpark mall on Sunday.
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The community meeting was held in a parking lot at the mall and Covid-regulations such as the wearing of masks and sanitising were adhered to.
The meeting was led by Akasia resident Tienie Vorster and was attended by police officials, the area’s ward councillor, community policing forums (CPFs) and other safety groups.
Tswane district commissioner Major General Hilda Mohajane also joined the meeting, not just as a police officer, but also as a concerned resident in Akasia.
“We must all do our part to help the community, take hands with the CPF and ensure the safety of our families and neighbours,” said Mohajane.
Vorster praised Mohajane for her involvement in CPF patrols during her off-duty hours and in her capacity as a member of the community.
Though complaints about crime in the area were raised during the meeting, the conversation was steered to a more positive outlook.
“We cannot just complain about crime, we must do something about it,” Vorster said, encouraging the attending residents to come up with solutions and suggestions to combat crime.
Many residents suggested that more police visibility and CPF patrols were needed.
Residents who had the opportunity to voice their opinions also committed themselves to join their CPFs.
Sector 2 CPF chairperson Paulina Seboloki offered to assist communities in Akasia to get their CPF groups started.
“Background checks are done on all the CPF members to ensure they don’t have criminal records,” Seboloki assured.
Vorster explained that the role of the CPF is vital to the safety of every community.
CPF members don’t get compensated and are often taken for granted by their communities who depend on them for help when criminals strike.
Any resident can volunteer to become a member of the CPF.
Akasia station commander Colonel Boykie Ginindza agreed that CPFs assisted greatly in helping the police combat crime.
“We (Akasia police) have to cover a large area, 152km in radius, and are appreciative of the CPF and community groups assisting us in preventing crimes.”
Ginindza stressed the importance for people to report crimes.
“Even if it is attempted thefts, attempted robberies or any crime – no matter how small, people must report it so that we know where the problem areas are.”
Mohajane mentioned at the meeting that there were plans to upgrade the Akasia police station.
“The move to a bigger station was halted due to the Covid pandemic, but we are moving forth with the plan.”
Vorster also tackled the issue of gender-based violence.
Addressing especially the men in attendance he said: “God made us men strong to protect our women. Never lift a hand to your spouse or partner, rather walk away”.
He concluded the meeting by saying that all residents should get to know their neighbours and keep one another safe.
“You are only as safe as your neighbour allows you to be.”
To join a CPF in Akasia, call Paulina Seboloki on 083-644-5976 or Tienie Vorster on 082-574-7180.
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