Sandringham and Bramley community policing forums call for men involvement in fight against crime
With women making up the majority of volunteers, Sandringham CPF Sector 1 and Bramely CPF Sector 2 chief commanders say greater male participation and community support are essential to creating safer neighbourhoods.
Community safety leaders from the Sandringham and Bramley community policing forums (CPF) have appealed for greater public involvement in the fight against crime, highlighting the challenges faced by women who often take the lead in community patrols and crime prevention initiatives.
Speaking on behalf of Sandringham CPF Sector 1, chief commander Loraine Buzo said women make up the majority of active volunteers on the ground, while male participation remains limited. “We urge and beg men to come and join us. We face many difficulties, and, at times, we are intimidated. When we stand firm and become bold in carrying out our duties, we are often labelled as arrogant, rude, or difficult.”
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Buzo said that women in leadership positions often encounter criticism, adding that perceptions might be different if more men were involved in community safety initiatives. “Sometimes I think we are being criticised because we are women. I believe that if we had men in our teams, we would not get intimidated when doing our job.
“We want men to come and be part of the change we want in our communities. We are committed to protecting our communities and making a difference.”
Bramley CPF Sector 2 chief commander Lebo Kgang echoed the call for greater participation and support, emphasising the need for manpower and essential resources. “Now, it’s winter. We need equipment such as torches, pepper spray, gloves, and even the jackets.
“If community members are unable to join patrols, they can still assist by donating much-needed supplies. We would be very happy.”
Kgang explained that CPF members do more than crime prevention patrols. They also participate in community clean-up campaigns aimed at addressing illegal dumping and environmental hazards. “We’re using our hands now, to clean without necessary resources.”
Both leaders stressed that illegal dumping contributes to broader social and criminal problems within communities. According to Buzo, abandoned waste sites often become hotspots for criminal activity and public health concerns.
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She said during clean-ups they have encountered disturbing situations, including abandoned infants, illegally cut trees, and neglected overgrown areas that create opportunities for crime. “A lot of these issues are connected. When we work together to keep our neighbourhoods clean, we also help reduce opportunities for crime.”
Buzo and Kgang appealed to residents to support community initiatives, rather than criticise those who volunteer their time. “For people against what we do, get to know us first before you judge us. We are volunteering our time for the love of the community.
“We need to stand together as one community. Only by working together can we effectively fight crime and create a safer environment for everyone.”
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