Douglasdale police address CPF Sector 3 residents at community imbizo
Station commander of Douglasdale police, Brigadier Veeshani Arikum called for Chartwell residents to continue reaching out to police in their time of need.
Chartwell residents raised concerns in their community to Douglasdale police at a community imbizo on March 16.
A healthy turnout of residents addressed police officers on a variety of topics. These included what to do when stopped by suspected bogus police late at night, the alleged national shutdown scheduled for March 20, and general enquiries.
Areas in Sector 3 of the Douglasdale CPF (Community Policing Forum) include Dainfern, Chartwell North, Fourways Gardens, Dainfern, Broadacres, Witkoppen, Stratford and Kengies.
Station Commander, Brigadier Veeshani Arikum chatted to attendees and answered questions. She said police want to work closely with the community to combat crime. “When we talk about an imbizo, it’s an inquiry. We want the community to tell us what we can do better to improve policing. We come back and tell you what you can do to assist us in improving policing,” she said.
The issue of resources at the station was raised as one resident asked police what the current state of resources at the station is.
The support commander at the station, Colonel Motsake Thobejane said a request has been put in for a generator at the station. “At our last meeting with the CPF, we did write an application on how they can help us with a generator. So, we are still waiting on that,” he said.
However, the meeting not only addressed concerns in their sector. Many acknowledged the efforts of the police in their community. Members of the area, Jeanine Kerr and Mosa Molapo, were impressed at the police’s efforts in engaging with the community.
“We need to find a way to give back to the police, especially with the resources they have,” said Kerr.
“Initiatives like tonight where the police come out to talk to us and see what needs to happen. What’s happening and where we can stay ahead [are important]. In having this coming community coming together, we have an easier time relating to and interfacing with Douglasdale,” added Molapo.
Police invited residents to a public meeting taking place at Indaba Hotel on April 5. Ward councillors, JMPD (Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department) and other role players are set to also attend.
Share your thoughts on the Fourways Review Facebook page.
Related articles:
Police have launched a manhunt following a brutal killing of an elderly man in Chartwell
