Soshanguve encouraged to report crime despite concerns
Members of the community shared their problems which included but not limited to armed robberies, hijackings, police corruption, undocumented persons and unscrupulous “patrollers” who are continuously taking money from pensioners and other community members.
Rietgat police braved Friday’s cold weather to engage the community of Soshanguve Block T to combat crime in the area.
The engagement took place at Kgotlelelang primary school where over 160 community members converged.
Station commander Brigadier Molatelo Maphoto, sector manager Sergeant Irene Ntuli, CPF chairperson Molefe Tau and his patrollers encouraged the community to report crime.
The brigadier shared his phone number (082 455 8236) with the community and invited them to call him 24/7 without hesitation.
Members of the community shared their problems which included but not limited to armed robberies, hijackings, police corruption, undocumented persons and unscrupulous “patrollers” who are continuously taking money from pensioners and other community members.
Residents told the police that the increasing crime in the community is even creating friction among them as criminals brag about their acts of criminality.
“Thugs are growing arrogant because they are never arrested,” residents said.
They added that crime was escalating in the area and domestic violence has gotten out of hand and pleaded with Maphoto to help them in the fight against crime.
“We feel like the police are failing us. Brigadier, please help us, our humble request is that you talk to us so that we can fight crime together,” they said.
Maphoto encouraged members of the community to come forward with information.
“Let’s blow the whistle, give me the information, you can remain anonymous as long as you are giving the relevant information to me,” he said.
While challenging the community to report crime, he told them to come to the police station to see him, even without an appointment.
He said he accounts to them, therefore they must have faith in him in the fight against crime.
Tau told the community to report their children when they bring stolen items into the house.
“Stop watching televisions that were acquired through crime and report your children,” he said.
He further encouraged the community to revive the spirit of Ubuntu and neighbourliness.
“Let’s change and show the younger generation the right thing and respect law and order,” he said.
As a parting shot, the police warned the community, particularly those who are members of stokvels to use electronic means of sharing dividends with their members.
Grocery stokvels were also advised to avoid bulking their groceries since criminals are targeting to hijack their deliver vehicle to get their hands on the groceries.
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