Domestic watch is part of the Making a Difference campaign to educate domestic workers on how to prevent crime.
Midrand police communication officer Constable Matome Tlamela said domestic workers were educated on the police’s duties, and the police helped dispel any misconceptions domestic workers had about them.
She explained, “Domestic workers didn’t understand why criminals were arrested [but] after a few days they were seen walking in the streets. Captain Martin Hulk and Captain Lionel Chetty explained the procedures that are followed by the police until the docket is sent to court for the appearance of the suspect.”
She said police warned domestic workers not to take the law into their own hands. “They were also advised to report any crime… in their area to the police,” said Tlamela.
“If someone was caught after committing a crime, the community must call the police and not assault the person.”
Police advised the community to have the police patrol police vehicle phone numbers saved on their cellphones on speed dial, as well as the security patrol vehicles.
She said in terms of complaints, every complaint is made a priority. “Our police officers are expected to respond timeously to any complaint, however those who do not fulfil their mandate will be reported to their station commanders in writing. Complaints in writing could result in a response from a senior official,” said Tlamela.
