Searles re-elected as CPF chairman

HADEN Searles has been re-elected as chairman of the Durban North/Umhlanga Community Policing Forum (CPF) after an AGM at Immanuel Church in Somerset Park last week. Searles, who had served out his five-year term, has been mandated to fulfil five more years at the helm of the forum. Station Commander of the Durban North SAPS, Col Gopaul Naidoo, was also in attendance and used the platform to give feedback on crime trends during the past financial year.

Several selections to consolidate the CPF’s sub-sectors were also made while a handful of new members were welcomed.

However, of concern for Searles, was the lack of public participation from residents in the area.

“We had close to 30 people at the meeting, the majority of them were CPF members. I’m not happy about the lack of participation, it’s disheartening when we are trying to make a difference in the community when you see a turnout like this. People are quick to complain about crime, but they won’t join the CPF which is concerning,” he said.

Searles added that the Durban North SAPS patrolled one of the biggest police sectors in KZN.

“The sector covers 43 square kilometres and in the past five years we’ve established a fantastic relationship with the station as well as security companies in the area. However, more needs to be done, we need the community to back us up. We’ve highlighted some important issues affecting the North Durban community, which include drunk driving and speeding. We need more visible policing from Metro to curb this,” Searles concluded.

Changes for the CPF committee
Vice-chairman: Terry Goulding
Secretary of CPF: Sandie Piek
Treasurer: Don Smith
CPF pro: Mary Knox
Reservist coordinator: Tyron Powell