The Klopperpark community, along with Bedfordview SAPS and Bedfordview Community Police Forum (BCPF), came together on February 27 at the Cornerstone Church for a community meeting to combat crime in the area.
The meeting was attended by BCPF’s head patroller, Mark Morris; Bedfordview SAPS officials, including station commander, Col Justus Geustyn; and Capt Mthabeleni Buthelezi .
Geustyn opened the meeting by urging the community to report crimes in the area, and to raise their issue and to provide solutions.
“We are here to work with the community, you are our eyes and ears,” said Geustyn.
He added he would like to revive the sector forum in Klopperpark, and get the sub-structure up and running.
Morris also informed the community on how the BCPF can assist them to report crime, as well as to understand SAPS procedures.
“I know the community has a problem with drug dealers in the area. Do not be scared, let’s get these guys arrested; we are here to help you report and combat this,” said Morris.
A number of issues were raised by the Klopperpark community .
Public drinking and shebeens have become an issue, as community expressed their concerns over public drinking on pavements and in front of stores, taking place every weekend.
The public drinking is a result of two liquor stores in the area, and the residents believe store owners should be held accountable.
Residents also expect more patrolling, as one of the stores operates late hours, and attracts criminals and drug dealing, and also people from other areas.
“Drinking in public is a common issue everywhere; we will attend to it accordingly. We do believe the bottle store in question is a concern. We will keep an eye on it. As SAPS and the community, we can go together to these spots over the weekend, and fight this issue together” said Geaustyn.
Geustyn added that patrolling vehicles and man-power at the station are issues of concern, and the police were looking at ways to improve the situation.
Drugs are also a main concern, as residents believe that every type of drug is readily available in the community, and that drug dealing is done openly as well.
“We have done recent operations with information we have received from the community.
“Unfortunately, the information has not yielded successes. Please continue to give us information, you will remain anonymous,” said Geustyn.
Illegal gambling at a house in the area has become an issue, with the residents’ concern over young children being exposed to the gambling house.
“We are aware of the house, it was closed down. We have also contacted the gambling board. We will go back to investigate,” said Geustyn.
BCPF meetings are also a concern for residents as these are hosted mainly in Bedfordview. There are request that the meetings be held in Klopperpark.
Geustyn agreed with the community, and said a sub-forum will be set up.
“The community should also be proactive. I urge residents to step forward and assist with patrolling and to establish proper networks.
“I also urge the Cornerstone Church to start drug outreach programmes, in an attempt to take away the demand,” said Morris.
Another issue raised by residents is the sector’s numbers not working.
“We will ensure everyone has the sector numbers. I will also follow up and make sure these numbers are working at all times,” said Geustyn.
The Klopperpark community agreed to working together to fight crime, and to helping SAPS to create a safer environment for everyone.
“We would like to thank the SAPS for coming to our meeting, and helping us with our issues as well as getting to meet the new station commander.
Together we can make a difference,” said Elaine Griffin, meeting organiser.
