The Benoni SAPS station commander, Brig Thabo Mphuthi, and the Benoni CPF executive chairperson, Dr Reza Patel, have issued a joint statement of appreciation to the CFP, security companies and other stakeholders.
This comes after the law enforcers rose to the call for duty and provided the police members with their support and protected Benoni over the tragic events of the last week.
The dedicated teams have successfully worked with the SAPS to act on gathered intelligence and were proactive in preventing some planned disruptions in the area and have worked tirelessly with the SAPS members to contain and control incidents of unrest.
“While our tears of mourning are fresh for the people who have lost their lives in the context of this violence and unrest, our messages of pain for communities across South Africa must also be peppered with the celebration of the collaborative efforts of the joint teams of the police and CPF members and patrollers.
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“The outcome of solidarity and the outpouring of new persons who wish to join the CPF structures in the community are welcomed in the context of fighting crime and keeping the jurisdiction safe.
“It is deeply concerning that such blatant and brazen acts of violence against the innocent are perpetrated and criminal elements in our communities continue to evade justice. We raise our voices to join citizens that call for a South Africa that is safe for all who reside within its borders.
“We extend a message of assurance to residents that we will engage with communities in the Benoni jurisdiction, and ensure that CPF structures and all their stakeholders and law enforcement will do their utmost to stem crime in the area.
“We do not doubt that the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and CPF family members will result in more positive outcomes.
“We take this opportunity to appeal to our communities to work together with the law enforcement to create safer communities and involve themselves in taking back their spaces and ousting criminals from amongst them.
“Crime does not differentiate race, gender, religion or age and we all must individually take an active role to address issues of crime and safety and take a stand against criminal elements that hide in our midst.
“Enough is enough. We all have to raise our voices and make efforts to stem this tide of violence and death.
“Residents are encouraged to report criminals and provide anonymous tip-offs to crime stop on 08600 10111 or contact their local police station with any information that will assist law enforcement in the investigation of crime.
“Community involvement is the key to successful and safer communities. We encourage active citizens to visit their local police stations and get involved in the CPFs in their respective jurisdictions. Together, we can stand steadfast and turn the tide of crime.”
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