The brutal murder of Helikon Park resident Johnnie Meyer was the main point of discussion at the Randfontein Community Policing Forum (CPF) crime awareness meeting on 13 August.
Meyer was gunned down his driveway earlier the same day in what is believed to have been a botched robbery.
At the meeting, residents were shocked at the news of the gruesome murder and expressed concern at the fact that violent crimes are spreading throughout town.
According to CPF Interim Chairperson Zaheer Gangat, it is unfortunate that Meyer had to die a gruesome murder for residents to actually sit up and take crime seriously.
“It is really unfortunate that he had to be murdered in such a way and we all express our sincere condolences to his family.
“His death shook us all.
“I believe that now more than ever, residents are actually convinced that crime is out of control in Randfontein and that the only way to eradicate crime from our town, is if we all stand together as communities and root the criminals out one by one.”
He adds that while patrolling the streets of Randfontein together with other CPF members, they were shocked to see how residents actually invite criminals into their own homes.
“You cannot believe how many people leave their gates and doors open during the day.
“This is an open invitation to criminals.
“People need to take crime more seriously and actually tighten up their security.
“Criminals don’t just take what they want and leave anymore.
“It has gotten to a point where they take your life, or those of your loved ones as well.
“Today’s incident in Helikon Park is ample proof of that.”
According to CPF chairperson Stanely Mylie, the CPF committee is set to embark on a roadshow soon to inform residents about the CPF and its mandate.
“We are doing this in order to get more people involved. We want the entire community to stand up and fight against crime.”
