The Berg Neighbourhood Watch has embarked on a series of recruitment drives for potential patrollers hoping to secure more feet on the ground throughout their area of operations.

Addressing residents and potential patrollers in Delarey, chairperson Hennie Arlow explained the requirements of becoming a patroller.

“We are not looking for people to take the law into their own hands or to confront criminals,” he says.

“Our role is to be the eyes and ears of the police within our neighbourhoods, to report anything suspicious, and to render any assistance necessary at accident scenes and other emergencies.”

Arlow says that the Berg Neighbourhood watch is not a place for heroes.

“As residents, we are uniquely situated to keep an eye out and report on crime within our own neighbourhoods, and to increase visibility, sending a message to criminals that they are being watched.

“Anyone wanting to become a patroller will be required to undergo a police clearance process, as well as a training session in which we discuss the protocols and rules of the neighbourhood watch.”

Arlow adds that patrollers will not be expected to patrol outside of their own neighbourhoods.

“We’ve found that people are more invested in their immediate neighbourhoods.

“That is why we are holding separate drives throughout the different neighbourhoods within our borders.”