Drug hotspots, dark streets, absent police top Tileba concerns

Drug-related crimes, poorly lit public spaces, and a lack of police visibility were among the top safety concerns raised by residents during a recent community engagement hosted by the Pretoria North Community Policing Forum (CPF) Sector 2 in Tileba on June 21.

Held at Jackson van Zyl Park, the outreach formed part of CPF’s efforts to increase visibility in the area, encourage community participation, and address local crime trends.

While several critical issues were discussed, CPF leaders noted with concern the low turnout, which they said underscores the need for deeper community mobilisation and improved communication channels.

CPF spokesperson Lebo Moloi said residents voiced their frustration over drug abuse hotspots, particularly around neglected and dimly lit parks.

“The lack of streetlighting and police patrols is making these areas unsafe and prone to criminal activity. Residents are living in fear, especially during the evenings,” she said.

The CPF has earmarked the parks and other hotspots for urgent intervention.

“We’ve already started engaging the municipality on the lighting issue and flagged these areas for increased patrols with SAPS,” added Moloi.

She added that the SAPS has been made aware of specific problem zones and has committed to adjusting patrol routes where possible.

Another recurring concern was the low level of police visibility in parts of Tileba.

Residents said they rarely see patrol vehicles and feel abandoned when reporting crimes.

“Some residents feel that their calls go unanswered or are met with delays, and that erodes trust in law enforcement,” said Moloi.

She said the CPF will intensify its collaboration with the SAPS to ensure patrols are increased during peak crime hours.

“We also hold joint planning sessions with SAPS and escalate unresolved complaints directly to station leadership,” she said.

Despite the disappointing turnout, the CPF managed to recruit several new volunteers at the event.

Moloi stressed that greater involvement from residents remains vital.

“We need more people to join, not just for patrols, but also for sharing information and supporting community initiatives,” she said.

The CPF plans to roll out more localised awareness campaigns to tackle the lack of engagement.

These will include door-to-door visits, school outreach programmes, church partnerships, and WhatsApp groups to improve real-time communication with residents. Smaller block-level meetings will also be introduced to make engagement more accessible and relevant to each zone’s specific needs.

CPF Sector 2 has developed a structured monitoring plan led by CPF leader Isaac Banda.

“We’ve committed to monthly check-ins and feedback reports that will be shared with the community. This isn’t a once-off event, it’s an ongoing partnership,” said Moloi.

The CPF is also rolling out targeted safety programmes tailored to protect vulnerable groups such as women, the elderly, and children.

“We are working with victim support services, running self-defence and awareness workshops, and strengthening school safety initiatives through collaboration with local educators and parents.”

Tileba resident Peter Jacobs said the issues raised are long-standing and need urgent action.

“The crime here is getting out of hand, especially at night. We need proper lighting and visible policing. I’m glad CPF is listening, but more residents need to show up. We can’t fix this alone,” he said.

To join or support CPF Sector 2, residents can call 073 188 8669.

ALSO READ: Queenswood residents dealt a dark blow

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.