Unity in Bedfordview
From the onset various CPF bodies, working with security providers and the SAPS provided up to date information to residents.
As many parts of Gauteng and Durban descended into chaos last week, residents in Bedfordview, Edenvale and surrounds were kept informed through a number of legitimate channels.
One of those was through the CPF structures.
From the onset, various CPF bodies, working with security providers and the SAPS, provided up-to-date information to residents.
This not only ensured calm in a number of areas but also warned residents of any possible threats.
Initially, situation reports (SITREP) were sent out every four hours, but as the situation began to calm down, these became at six- and finally eight-hour intervals.
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By Friday morning, SITREPs were deemed only necessary if or when there should be an immediate threat in any of the three Bedfordview sectors.
On Wednesday last week, teams working in the area received support in the form of SANDF deployment around Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Officers deployed thanked Stallion Security for delivering hot coffee to those stationed around the centre as well as those at Park Meadows Shopping Centre.
Bedfordview CPF chairperson Gavin Henry said initially there were a number of WhatsApp voice notes doing the rounds that caused panic.
“I learnt some time ago that the last thing you do in a crisis is panic. You need to stay calm and focused.
“That’s what I wanted to do with the reports. They were factual, accurate, current, verified and unemotional. At times, I added a little motivation too,” Henry said.
Along with regular reports, members of the BCPF communicated with the SAPS multiple times each day and relayed messages received to a fact-checking group for verification.
He added that the reports were received with gratitude.
“Many people said the reports kept them calm and they were thankful for that.”
Henry said during the events of last week, the BCPF made a call for residents to join the structure to help when needed.
“We received 80 applications from residents to join the CPF. Historically, we’ve only had 10 patrollers for BCPF, which is a small number compared to the CPFs of Primrose and Edenvale. It’s great to know that in an emergency there are people who are willing to stand up and help,” he said.
Henry said the cooperation between various security providers in the area was outstanding.
“The security sector was sharing intelligence and backing each other up when they were called out. They also worked closely with the CPF and SAPS.”
Henry said the area of concern was Sector 3 after a threat was received that Klopperpark SPAR would be attacked.
“We were prepared for this. Security, CPF patrollers and community members worked together and remained vigilant towards any threats.”
Residents who are interesting in joining the Bedfordview CPF can email a copy of their ID to info@BCPF.co.za
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