Neglected public spaces, illegal dumping and abandoned buildings are among the environmental concerns highlighted by Pretoria North police during a community clean-up initiative aimed at promoting safer neighbourhoods.

Police officers, the Community Policing Forum (CPF), AfriForum Noord van die Berg’s neighbourhood team and other volunteers joined forces on Friday, October 23, to clean the Pretoria North Police Station and its surrounding grounds.

Pretoria North police spokesperson Sergeant Tumisang Moloto said maintaining clean surroundings was not only about improving the appearance of public spaces but also about encouraging a safer environment for the community.

He urged residents to dispose of rubbish at designated sites and participate in initiatives aimed at improving their neighbourhoods.

“We do not encourage illegal dumping, but designated areas where people are encouraged to go and dump their rubbish,” said Moloto.

Tackling neglected spaces to deter criminals

He added that neglected areas, including abandoned buildings and overgrown spaces, required attention because they could contribute to crime.

“If we can take care of such areas, then we would be in a position to reduce crime,” he said.

Moloto emphasised that community participation was essential to effective policing, adding that the clean-up demonstrated how residents and law enforcement could work together towards a common goal.

He also said a clean, safe police station could help members of the public feel more confident seeking assistance.

“Even when clients come and visit the Community Service Centre, they automatically have that confidence to say they will receive the best and utmost service because of how people behave and how the environment looks,” he said.

Working together for better service

Pretoria North CPF spokesperson Lebo Moloi echoed the call for shared responsibility, saying the CPF should work with police to keep the station and its surroundings clean.

She said a clean environment creates a good impression and makes visitors feel comfortable approaching the station for help.

AfriForum representative Zanell Janse van Vuuren thanked the Noord van die Berg neighbourhood team and volunteers for participating.

“It makes one’s heart beat warm when people in the community join hands to make things happen,” she said.

Moloto thanked everyone who participated, emphasising that the initiative was intended to benefit both police and residents.

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