The Norwood Police Station marked a pivotal moment on June 18 as SAPS officially welcomed the newly inducted Sector 1 Community Policing Forum (CPF) committee at a special event in Melrose.

Led by Thabo Thipe, from the Gauteng Department of Community Safety, the induction underscored a renewed commitment to transparent, grassroots policing. Warrant Officer Eric Masotsha, alongside newly appointed Visible Policing Commander Lieutenant-Colonel Stephen Jacobs, pledged full support.

Masotsha described the CPF as: ‘The ears of the community’, highlighting the importance of resident feedback and direct liaison with police.

Also read: Norwood CPF commends police station for fourth quarter crime stats

New chairperson Sunil Geness, a respected community leader, envisions a tech-forward CPF, focused on safety through data, education, and active partnerships with SAPS, schools, and local organisations. “The early support has been inspiring. This CPF belongs to Sector 1. We’re here to rebuild trust and make safety everyone’s responsibility.”

Plans include a website, mobile app, regular updates, and public safety workshops. Key roles are held by deputy chairperson Molesh Singh, secretary Amanda Fleming, PR and business liaison Samantha Jones, and security liaison Christian Shekleton.

Also read: Police target crime hotspots in Norwood under Operation Shanela

SAPS also invited CPF leaders to participate in weekly crime meetings for real-time updates and collaboration.

“This isn’t just a structure,” said Geness. “It’s a movement.”

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