RESIDENTS of Wentworth and Merebank raised public safety concerns and other community issues with the Wentworth police station during a recent picket demonstration.

The residents voiced concerns over ineffective service at the Wentworth police station.

Residents told the SUN that officers at the station have refused to assist them in opening cases. These allegations emerged during a twofold picket demonstration, which highlighted the national call to end gender-based violence (GBV) and drew attention to ongoing issues at the Wentworth police station.

A resident, Prega Moodley, said the community has faced numerous challenges with the police, with some members reportedly being turned away when trying to open cases.

“I personally experienced this in July when I came to report the theft of palm trees. After a lengthy argument with officers at the charge office, they finally agreed to register the case. They insisted that I provide CCTV footage to be used as evidence,” said Moodley.

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He added, “Our chairperson [Premilla] was even assaulted at the police station while trying to open a case. Incidents like these highlight the urgent need for the Wentworth Police Station to step up and properly serve the community.”

The sentiments were triggered by the recent incident where the founder of the Merewest Community Foundation, Premilla Deonath, was allegedly assaulted at the police station by the police.

Ward committee member for health, safety and security, Sharin Rajman, confirmed having received complaints from the public about not being assisted when reporting cases that seem minor to the police.

“No case is minor. We urge the police to assist the community when they come to the station. I understand that the police stations are under-resourced, however, they still need to investigate all the cases. They must not turn away the people,” said Rajman.

In a signed letter sent to the Wentworth police station Moodley recounted his horrifying ordeal.

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“I too once approached the police officer for assistance in a manner that required professionalism and empathy. Instead, I was met with disdain, disrespect and outright neglect, leaving me humiliated and disillusioned,” the statement read.

Station commander for Wentworth police station, Colonel Sinayo Mtshali, received the memorandum. She urged the community to work with the police and bring leads that will assist them in the investigation.

She said the police work in partnership with the justice system to ensure that serious issues are addressed.

“I am going to have a look at the memorandum and respond within a time that I am going to communicate with the organisers [of a march],” said Mtshali.

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