Norwood Sector 1 CPF aims to tackle crime through unity and innovation
Residents, SAPS, and volunteers join forces to tackle crime in Norwood Sector 1 through a newly formed CPF.
The Norwood community celebrated a major milestone on June 18 with the official induction of the new Sector 1 Community Policing Forum (CPF) committee, a people-powered initiative aimed at strengthening local safety and rebuilding trust between police and the public.
Led by SAPS Gauteng’s Thabo Thipe, Warrant Officer Eric Masotsha, and Norwood’s new head of visible policing Lieutenant-Colonel Stephen Jacobs, the event marked the beginning of a fresh partnership between the community and Norwood SAPS. Jacobs’ arrival signals renewed energy and commitment to local crime prevention efforts.
Read more: Norwood SAPS welcomes new Sector 1 CPF committee with open arms
Ward 73 councillor Eleanor Huggett welcomed the CPF’s formation, calling it a vital link between residents and provincial police services. “A well-run CPF is the voice of the community and its link to SAPS. Residents need to know this structure gives them a say in policing. Despite local government challenges, and limited support from JMPD, CPF structures like this offer hope and much-needed accountability.”
Chairperson Sunil Geness, who was elected unopposed, brings decades of experience in civic leadership and a deep belief in Seva, the Hindu principle of selfless service. He sees his new role, not just as a responsibility, but as a calling. “We’re here to listen, serve, and protect with transparency, technology, and heart.”
The CPF held its first meeting on June 26, where newly elected office bearers and community representatives outlined priorities for the next six months. These included building trust with SAPS through regular two-way communication, launching digital tools for public engagement, and strengthening ties with local schools, businesses, faith groups, and security providers.
The CPF team is made up of Geness, deputy chairperson Molesh Singh, secretary Amanda Fleming, business liaison and PR Samantha Jones, and security liaison Christian Shekleton. Together they aim to move Norwood Sector 1 from reactive policing to a more proactive, community-led safety culture.
“We’ve had overwhelming support so far,” said Geness. “Residents, businesses, and even local religious institutions are coming forward to work together on making this neighbourhood safer.”
Masotsha encouraged the CPF to remain active participants in weekly station crime meetings and highlighted the need for the community to engage directly with police, helping to identify hotspots and improve local responses.
The CPF will soon launch a website and mobile app to make crime reporting easier, while regular community days and listening sessions will give residents a direct voice in safety planning. Geness said the team is already working on partnerships with private security firms to fill gaps in police resources, while ensuring accountability through transparent collaboration.
“We believe safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he added. “Whether you’re a parent, a shop owner, or a teenager walking home from school, the CPF is your platform to be heard and to help shape a safer Norwood.”
The CPF encourages all residents, ratepayers, and organisations in Sector 1 to get involved. It is, after all, a volunteer body, by the community, for the community.
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