Akasia CPF induction equips new members for community safety efforts
With plans to launch initiatives such as public safety meetings, neighbourhood watch mobilisations, and educational campaigns on crime prevention, CPF members will play an active role in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community.
The Akasia Community Policing Forum (CPF) held a comprehensive induction workshop aimed at empowering its newly elected executive members.
Supported by the Akasia SAPS, Department of Community Safety, and the Police Secretariat, the event provided an opportunity for CPF members to receive critical training in their role as intermediary between the community and police.
A major focus of the workshop was fostering collaboration between residents and law enforcement.
According to CPF spokesperson Lerato Makwe, sessions explored crime prevention strategies, legal frameworks, and leadership development.
Makwe said the members learned practical skills, such as conflict resolution and effective community engagement techniques.
She emphasised the importance of the workshop, saying, “CPF members are now better prepared to conduct street-by-street patrols, identify crime hotspots, and organise effective awareness campaigns”.
With plans to launch initiatives such as public safety meetings, neighbourhood watch mobilisations, and educational campaigns on crime prevention, CPF members will play an active role in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the Akasia community.
“We aim to build trust between residents and police by encouraging community participation. Safety is a shared responsibility, and the CPF is committed to ensuring that the community plays an active role in keeping our streets safe,” said Makwe.
One of the challenges addressed during the workshop was resource constraints.
The CPF looked at ways to engage local business and community stakeholders to support their initiatives.
The workshop also introduced conflict management techniques, helping the members navigate resistance from parts of the community and encouraging broader participation.
The Street-by-Street Rally Campaign was introduced as a flagship initiative.
According to Makwe, the campaign aims to address the issue of non-functional streetlights, a critical factor in local crime.
She said the CPF planned to mobilise residents to sign a petition urging the municipality to prioritise streetlight repairs, which will enhance nighttime safety in the area.
The induction workshop also laid the groundwork for expanding current initiatives. The Watchman Patrol Programme, which focusses on proactive patrolling of vulnerable areas, will be bolstered by additional members trained during the workshop.
“Socio-economic factors contributing to crime are being addressed through community projects like food security farms, which help to alleviate poverty and reduce criminal activity.”
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