Support needed for uMgeni vehicle patrols
Patrols to set up a presence in the area and report any suspicious behaviour says Umgeni Neighbourhood Watch.
THE Umgeni Neighbourhood Watch is looking for volunteers to help start vehicle patrols in the area to combat the increasing crime rate. There have been a number of house break-ins in recent months, said chairman of the watch, Brian Daish. He said the vehicle patrols were about setting up a presence in the area and reporting any suspicious behaviour.
“We are hoping to curb crime in our area through the initiative. We hope to start the patrols from 6pm to 6am and residents would have to use their own vehicles at their own cost,” Daish explained. “The patrols will be closely monitored by the SAPS, the CPF and Marshall Security. I would like to say to residents that this isn’t about confronting suspects or endangering themselves, it’s purely observational participation. Initially, cell phones will be used to report suspicious behaviour, but at a later stage we will use radios to communicate.”
The upsurge in crime in the area was further highlighted after armed house breakers attempted to stab a security officer responding to an alarm activation.
“I think it’s something we need in the area. Other neighbourhood watches have implemented similar initiatives, which have reaped positive rewards. We are hoping to the do the same but we need the backing of the community to fight crime,” he said.
If residents are interested in volunteering their time to the vehicle patrols, contact Daish on 076 846 1415 or email daish@mweb.co.za. You can also contact Louis Fourie on 083 441 6364 or e-mail louis@kentmotors.co.za.
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