A Community Police Forum (CPF) is a group of people from different communities and police representatives who meet to discuss safety problems in their communities. They aim to ensure police accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in the community.
They can assist with publicising community concerns and available solutions, such as services from government or community agencies or new laws or codes that will be enforced. In addition, the media can have a significant impact on public perceptions of the police, crime problems, and fear of crime.
The CPF is trying through its mission statement of, for the community by the community, to help bring back confidence in people. The CPF has volunteer patrollers who sacrifice their time at night to patrol in areas of concern.
Fathima Moosa is deputy secretary of the Port Shepstone Executive CPF where she wears many caps.
“I am the secretary of the Marburg CPF which is a sub-forum. As one of the head of patrollers, I also assist residents if they require a service provider, for example Saps, ambulance, law enforcement and more. My role may sound small, but it is big shoes to fill when it comes to the community.”
What is the process of becoming a CPF member?
If you want to become a member, join the meetings and have a say in what is going on.
“As the secretary I do not restrict the community from airing their views. In terms of security, the CPF tries to help Saps and security companies in keeping the community safe,” added Fathima.
What are the main factors contributing to the effectiveness of the CPFs?
“The CPF is effective when the community is vigilant by being the eyes and ears of the Saps. The community reports crime to the CPF and Saps. A case is then opened. The quicker the community reacts in reporting a case and the more information provided will result in a speedier and more positive outcome in catching the culprit. The community updates the CPF constantly and aids in preventing future crime in the area.
Is there a good relationship between CPFs, police and the community?
“There is a good relationship between the CPF and police, but between the police and the community there isn’t a good relationship. The CPF and Saps work together in helping each other with intelligence received from the community. Meetings are held between Saps and the CPF regularly, to help each other in helping the community. The community has lost faith in the police as they have not seen any positive results. The CPF is trying to bridge the gap between Saps and the community,” added Fathima.
Important numbers: Saps control room – 039 6829222; Protection Services 039 682 5555, Ray Nkonyeni Municipality 039 6882027 or email Fathima at
pscpfexecutive@gmail.com
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