Following the story of an armed robbery that happened in Rosettenville at Lang Street, which appeared on the front page of Southern COURIER (Sep 2), The Sector 1 Policing forum, under Moffatview Community Policing Forum would like to register its concern regarding the whole scene.
Firstly, our souls are with the affected victims and thanks God for saving everybody’s life from that house. We commend Metro cops for being around the vicinity at the right time. This is part of visible policing, vindicating the course for success.
What depressed us a lot is when those who are supposed to protect us are on the wrong side of the law, and it is clear from the article there were such kind of people. Crime is a societal issue and our primary role as the Sector is to coordinate and create a strong united front from the community and the police in a fight against crime. Imagine telling the people to work with the police, while there are those who still rob the people they are supposed to care for and protect. We take solace from the fact that they are not from our station, but also condemn strongly this kind of conduct and behaviour.
We still reiterate our view that not all police are corrupt. We’ve witnessed hard-working men and women in blue, thus watering the confidence we still have in them, and believe that it is only a few rotten potatoes that can be dealt with through the proper channels, informed by the systems within the framework of the law.
Sector 1 consists of the following areas: Springfield, Wemmerpan and Pioneer Park precinct, La Rochelle, Rosettenville, The Hill, Regents Park, Rewlatch and half of Moffat Park. It is the big sector at Moffatview Police Station, and the most bleeding one with crime. Active participation from the public proves to us that there was significant contribution, which helps to enlist and sustain control in the areas before. We appeal to the public to attend sector meetings so that they can not only participate, but share valuable ideas, we need them to enhance our strategies and intensify the programmes in place. They will have the opportunity to hear the progress report from the Sector Manager, interact with SAPS, including other role players and stake holders.
We take note of The Hill area taking some initiative to organise themselves in a fight against crime, and challenge others to follow suit. This should not compromise the procedure of working under a recognised body like CPF, which is governed by the Act.
We also make an appeal to individuals (from all areas under Sector 1) who are interested in joining the Sector committees to contact the following people: Justice 083 704 8844, Cyril 082 660 8583, Bulelwa 082 067 4049 or Nombeko 082 971 2626.
Statement confirmed by The Sector Chairperson, Justice Mogotlane.
