The Pretoria North CPF is urging residents to adopt two-way radios as part of a broader strategy to improve communication, response times and overall community safety.

This call comes amid ongoing concerns around crime in the area, with CPF members and law enforcement emphasising that effective communication remains one of the most powerful tools in crime prevention.

CPF Sector 1 Secretary Chantelle Walters highlighted the importance of residents becoming more actively involved in safety initiatives, particularly through the use of radio communication.

“Two-way radios allow us to communicate instantly as a community. When something happens, information can be shared in real time, which helps us respond quicker and more effectively,” said Walters.

According to the CPF, residents who wish to join the radio network must first undergo a vetting process to ensure they have no criminal record.

Once approved, they can either purchase a new or second-hand radio or pay a minimal annual licensing fee.

The system is designed to be accessible, with options available for both active patrollers and residents who prefer to assist from their homes.

Walters explained that not everyone is required to be on the ground conducting patrols.

“Some of our older residents or those who cannot patrol can still play a vital role by being radio users.

“They can report suspicious activity, request assistance or stay informed about what is happening in their area,” she said.

The initiative forms part of a wider effort to strengthen collaboration between the community, police and private security companies.

By creating a connected network of residents, the CPF aims to close communication gaps that criminals often exploit.

Recent discussions at community meetings have revealed that many crimes occur when residents are unaware of incidents happening nearby.

The introduction of a co-ordinated radio system allows for immediate alerts, enabling quicker reactions and potentially preventing crimes before they escalate.

Walters also acknowledged that community participation has been a challenge, with meeting attendance often lower than expected.

She believes initiatives like the radio network can help rebuild trust and encourage more residents to get involved.

“We understand that people have lost faith over time, but the only way we can make a real difference is by working together.

“The radio network is one of the ways we can rebuild that connection and show visible results,” she said.

The CPF has also emphasised that increased visibility and communication have already contributed to some success in reducing crime in certain areas.

Joint operations involving community members, SAPS and private security have shown that when residents are actively involved, crime patterns can be disrupted.

Residents are encouraged to see the radio system not just as a tool, but as part of a collective effort to reclaim their neighbourhoods.

By staying informed and connected, communities can become more proactive rather than reactive in addressing crime.

“Safety is everyone’s responsibility. The more people we have connected and involved, the stronger and safer our community becomes,” Walters said.

The CPF continues to invite residents to join the initiative, stressing that even small contributions can make a significant impact in the fight against crime.

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