Scores of farmers and residents living in the rural part of Midvaal raised serious concerns about safety and security in their respective areas during the farmers’ imbizo held at the Meyerton Town Hall on February 13. The engagement forms part of the Integrated Service Delivery Operation aimed at strengthening service delivery and enhancing community safety across the region.
Among those in attendance were the Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, the Sedibeng District Commissioner, Major General Nkhensani Mukwevho, the MMC for Public Safety and Roads, Chantal Gomes, and representatives from the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
The Imbizo underscored issues, including stock theft, equipment theft, police visibility, and inadequate resources to respond swiftly to emergencies or crime.
Farmer Thabo Mokoena raised concerns about challenges resulting from the complex requirements to get funding. He added that the most challenging matter is the one on water rights.
Midvaal CPF Deputy Chairperson Gerhard Maree stated that the Meyerton police station is under-resourced and struggling to serve the rapidly growing Midvaal community.
“There are only three sectors in Midvaal, and this means that the resources available are not enough to effectively serve all the communities. Midvaal is growing at a very fast pace, while the station remains the same size.”
Maree suggested that another sector be added to serve rural areas more effectively. He said that an additional sector would mean additional resources and manpower to fight crime on the ground. Maree made a call for the community to join CPF structures in their respective areas, reiterating the importance of coordinated efforts between the community and law enforcement to combat crime.
Addressing the community, General Mthomebeni echoed Maree’s sentiment, emphasising the importance of the community working together with law enforcement to fight crime. He stated that information received from community members has helped the police with different cases.
Mthombeni noted the need for additional resources at the Meyerton SAPS. The government engaged directly with the farming community, addressing concerns and making a call to strengthen collaboration between farmers and law enforcement agencies.
