Proposal to implement cycle patrols in Westville

BICYCLES could be the new mode of transport for a group of Westville policemen who have decided to trade their vehicles to use two-wheelers to patrol the area.

Sergeant Stephen Clark from the Westvillec SAPS said the Westville CBD is a prime location for the use of bicycles for visible policing as it suits several criteria for effective application. “The image of four or five fit, able, armed and alert police officials in a concentrated area like the Westville CBD, who can silently disappear and reappear, is expected to be a strong factor in displacing crime from the area. The area is quite centralised and compact. Within a few hundred metres of each other there are three shopping centres as well as major banks, churches, two malls and several restaurants.

“Westville central straddles the M13 highway and incorporates bus and taxi stops as well as the potential hazards, historically from people disregarding the pedestrian bridge and crossing the highway on foot. From a crime point of view, the close vicinity of the highway also provides a quick escape route for any suspects committing offences at any of the malls or businesses. The primary threats faced at the moment are thefts out of motor vehicles at and around malls, theft of motor vehicles, contact crimes as well as other offenses such as drunkenness and traffic incidents.

“The effectiveness of vehicle or foot patrols has limitations. Vehicles cannot make their way through very busy intersections and officials on foot cannot make their way to incidents a far distance away. The implementation of bicycle patrols covers several aspects of the needs of the area very well.

Speaking of the advantages of this initiative, Clark added, “Bicycles can very easily move in and out of controlled parking areas without adding to or being subject to vehicle congestion. Suspects on foot can be easily and quietly approached from several directions without breaching traffic codes. Several officials on bicycles can split up and regroup silently and seamlessly as the needs arise.

“In terms of the spirit of community policing, a bicycle patrol is a very public friendly approach. Officers on bicycles are easy to approach and can respond to queries or concerns that are immediately pertinent or possible to be resolved. Bicycle patrols are also highly visible. The presence of a different sight – that of several officers on bicycles – will be noticed by both the community and potential suspects.”