MORE than 150 residents from Wema Hostel attended a community safety imbizo recently, where they engaged with the police and the Montclair Community Police Forum (CPF) over growing concerns about crime and safety.

Among the key issues raised were police capacity, allegations of police corruption, the impact of drugs on the community and a serious lack of confidence in policing.

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Residents called for more visible police patrols, emphasising the need for a greater police presence to help address their safety concerns.

The residents also voiced their concerns and appealed for greater police visibility, improved assistance and more effective responses to crime.

Police urge the public to report crime

Police spokesperson in Montclair Constable Norah Ndlovu said the meeting aimed to receive first-hand information from the hostel dwellers about their concerns.

“The allegations and concerns made at the meeting will be addressed accordingly. The residents were advised to report any wrongdoings to the relevant authorities. They were also urged to take photographs of police vehicles if they suspected officers of being involved in unlawful activities as this could serve as evidence. The police are guided by strict principles of conduct,” said Ndlovu.

The engagement highlighted the community’s demand for safer neighbourhoods, responsive policing and reassurance that residents’ experiences are being heard and taken seriously.

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Concerns about alleged police corruption were raised during the discussion. These allegations have not been established as findings of the imbizo and would require formal reporting, appropriate investigation and due process.

Community Police Forum leaders attended a meeting

Chairperson on the Montclair CPF, Pastor Desmond James, thanked residents for their candid contributions and willingness to participate in the engagement, describing the discussion as an opportunity to strengthen communication between the community and policing structures while identifying priority areas for intervention.

He also stressed the importance of translating the concerns raised into practical action through continued engagement with police station management.

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He said such engagement should establish clear responsibilities, identify priority interventions and ensure that residents receive feedback on progress.

He added that while the attendance and open discussion marked an important opportunity for community engagement, the concerns raised point to the need for sustained follow-up, transparency and accountability to help rebuild public confidence in policing.

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