Akasia Residents are being asked to play an active role in fighting crime, as the Akasia Sector 2 CPF begins a vetting process aimed at strengthening community safety.

Interim chairperson Lerato Makwe said vetting forms the backbone of a disciplined and accountable patroller system aligned with police operations.

“Akasia Sector 2 CPF is implementing an integrated community safety strategy, with vetting as the foundation of a structured and community-driven patroller system,” said Makwe.

The CPF operates within the SAPS Akasia precinct, covering a wide area stretching from Willem Cruywagen Street to Hornsnek Road.

This includes suburbs such as Heatherdale, Theresapark, Winternest, Karenpark, The Orchards, Amandasig, Chantelle, Clarina, and parts of Ninapark.

According to Makwe, the vetting process is designed to ensure that all community patrollers are properly verified, registered, and accountable.

The process includes identity document verification, proof of residence, and CPF registration, all of which are completed through a same-day administrative system.

“This process is not meant to exclude people, but to protect the integrity of the CPF and the community. It ensures that those who serve are known, traceable, and committed,” she explained.

The initiative comes at a time when Sector 2 continues to face a number of crime-related challenges, including housebreakings, robberies, drug-related activities, illegal occupation of spaces, and poorly lit or neglected areas.

Makwe emphasised that vetting plays a crucial role in addressing these issues by preventing criminal infiltration into community patrol structures.

“Vetting helps us build trust between residents, the CPF and SAPS, while also improving co-ordination and visibility in crime prevention efforts,” she said.

Community participation remains a key pillar of the CPF’s strategy as residents are encouraged to join patrol structures, attend meetings, support awareness campaigns, and report suspicious activities in their neighbourhoods.

Makwe also highlighted the importance of involving young people in safety initiatives.

Through Youth Desk programmes, sports activities, and anti-drug campaigns, the CPF aims to steer youth away from crime while empowering them to become active contributors to safer communities.

She concluded by reiterating that the CPF’s long-term goal is to build a trusted, community-led safety system where residents work hand-in-hand with law enforcement.

“Vetting is not a barrier, but a necessary foundation for safer communities. Together, we can build a disciplined and reliable network of patrollers who are committed to protecting our neighbourhoods,” she added.

Residents interested in joining the CPF are urged to participate in the vetting process and become part of a coordinated effort to create a safer Akasia.

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