CPF operation to clean city streets of vagrants, crime generators

More than 30 Community Policing Forum (CPF) Sector 2 members embarked on an operation last Thursday in an effort to not only clean the streets of Bendor and Ster Park of vagrants but to visit several other areas and buildings pointed out as problem areas by residents.
Several houses under construction were visited and searched. “Empty or incomplete houses are a big concern as it creates the perfect hiding place for criminals and is classified as a crime generator. Searching such premises often yields positive results in that wanted criminals or illegal immigrants are arrested,” Sector 2 Chairperson Johan Retters said.
He indicated that two migrants who were unable to produce any form of identification, passport or permit were apprehended in a shack on one of the premises where they were allegedly hired as construction workers. A total of seven premises were searched and several persons asked for identification.
The operation was also taken to the park opposite Hoër Tegniese Skool Tom Naudé. “This has been a problem area for some time and several complaints have been received by community members. Even though the park is not in our area we do not hesitate to move into any public space to ensure that it is safe,” Retters said.
Sector 2 works closely with the Police and security companies in the city. “We engage all partners such as the Police and security companies. We can take them to problem areas in order for them to get a better idea of what is happening on the ground. Working hand in hand with them also builds good relations as we strive towards keeping good relationships and friendships with law enforcers,” Retters said.

Story & photos: RC Myburgh
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