Community safety and security discussed at Fairland CPF November meeting
FAIRLAND – No murders reported in the area for October.
A range of safety and security issues were discussed at the second last CPF meeting for the year.
With residents, police, security companies, metro police and ward councillors in attendance, the Fairland Community Policing Forum (CPF) hosted the November edition of their monthly meeting.
The agenda for this meeting was to give attention to crime trends in the area, feedback on by-law enforcement from Metro police and present a report from their Victim Support Unit.
Fairland Police Station Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Clive de Freitas, led the presentations on crime-related issues in the area.
He acknowledged that crime is still an issue in the area but they have it under control to a certain extent. He said the crime numbers recorded by Fairland police are good compared to other stations.
No murders or attempted murders were recorded in October. He warned residents and motorists to be careful about where they park their vehicles. Shopping centres, schools and sports event venues are being targeted for theft from and out of motor vehicles.
The hardworking and forever present Victim Support Unit was thanked once again for the incredible work they do.
Headed by Dr Sally Röthemeyer the unit attended to 33 victims over 23 cases over the month of October. Röthemeyer stated that the unit is often being called to areas outside of their jurisdiction such as Honeydew and Florida.
She stated that they don’t mind assisting these stations’ victims but it does stretch their limited resources.
She also shared that they recently counselled a victim that was hijacked in Grahamstown.
She was pleased to announce that, due to the fact that there were no child abuse or rape cases, they didn’t have to counsel such victims. She has cautioned the community that social problems caused by drugs and alcohol still need to be monitored.
Security companies were also acknowledged for the value they bring in ensuring the safety and security of the community.
De Freitas said, “Having these guys on board makes it easier for us to protect the area. We have a small number of police vehicles but having them join us makes a world of difference.”
ALSO READ: CPF awards helpful community members
