Public parks safety in the spotlight
EMMARENTIA – Police and patrollers to focus more on public parks and spaces.
Members of the Parkview police and the Community Policing Forum visited Johannesburg Botanical Gardens and Keith Fleming Park in Emmarentia in a bid to raise awareness on crime in these green spaces.
The initiative took place on the morning of March 18 and the members engaged with park users on the potential dangers facing them. Vice-chairperson of the forum Wayne Lurie said the goal for the day was to make it known to the public and criminals that they were present to fight crime as a community.
He said, “The main objective for today is awareness, visibility and making people feel safe in parks and public space environments. It’s to show that the community is out for the community, that we are looking after ourselves in conjunction with SAPS.”
According to the station’s spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, those using the park for walks, jogging and cycling could be victims of common robberies.
Sibeko said, “If you are jogging or taking a walk, leave your cellphone and other electronics at home so they can be safe. Such parks are open and criminals might take advantage, you are more likely to be safe if you leave such valuables at home.” Parkview police have committed to increasing patrols in and around parks and other open spaces in their precinct.
ALSO READ:
https://www.citizen.co.za/northcliff-melville-times/johannesburg-city-parks-and-zoo/
