THE Durban Central Community Policing Forum (CPF) elected its new chairperson, Caronesa Mitchelson at the Durban Central SAPS AGM held last week.
Speaking to Berea Mail, Mitchelson said she has been a member of the CPF for about 12 years. She has chaired the CPF’s Warwick Triangle satellite station for the past two years.
“The biggest issue we are facing is illegal squatter living in dilapidated buildings that used to belong to the municipality. Crime rates have gone up, especially around Lancers Road where there are more squatters,” said Mitchelson.
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Prevalent crimes include hijacking, business robberies, snatch and grab crimes and theft out of motor vehicles.
“It’s a big area and there are commuters traveling through Warwick Triangle and the inner city. Many people are driving with windows open and they are not aware of their surroundings because the area is so congested. It’s easy for criminals to stick their heads in the window. People also fall victim to theft when they leave their valuables in their cars while shopping,” said Mitchelson.
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Pedestrians are also at risk on the roads, she said.
“There are also a lot of students and pedestrians who walk with their cellphones in their hands or with earphones in their ears. We are trying to teach them to be vigilant on the streets,” said Mitchelson.
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