Eldos residents demand police visibility and unite against crime
Frustrated residents of Eldorado Park call for tangible solutions to address crime and safety concerns, citing lack of visible policing and community action.
The community of Eldorado Park recently expressed concern about the non-visibility of the police in the community during the strategic planning session on safety at Don Mateman Civic Centre.
The meeting, organised by Ward 17 Clr Dwain Ponsonby and Ward 18 Clr Juwairiya Kaldine, was aimed at giving the residents an opportunity to air their grievances and propose possible solutions.
The other stakeholders in attendance were the JMPD represented by Superintendent Chris Netshifefe and officer Lesedi Mogweng, faith-based organisations, local businesses, and the community at large.
ALSO READ: Crime concerns escalate in Eldorado Park
Concerned resident Vernon Booysen urged the residents of Eldos to unite against crime and gangsterism.
Fed up with the situation, Booysen believes that the time has arrived for residents to mobilize and reclaim their streets.
“We need to mobilise our extensions and get rid of loitering, gambling and other undesirable activities,” he said.
He said that just as important is providing options for at-risk youth, citing his project training ex-gang members as combat specialists.
“We have been waiting for SAPS to take the lead, but it is time for us to do something. We cannot have meaningless meetings.
“This imbizo is a talk show,” said Booysen, referring to the Ministerial Crime Prevention Community Imbizo, led by Deputy Minister of Police Cassel Mathela.
Another resident of Ext 6, Paramount Jacobs, said that child safety is a high priority, particularly in the vicinity of Cavendish Primary School.
He said that as a resident, they have witnessed the struggles the children go through while walking to and from school. The lack of visible policing and infrastructure, such as a safe walkway, is a worry he said.
“Gun violence and access to firearms is also a source of great concern. It is concerning to see young children being implicated in such activities.
“I join Pastor Jacobs in calling for joint operations and community-based interventions to assist in resolving these issues.”
The meeting was followed by a ceasefire march to Eldorado Park SAPS to submit a memorandum.
