POLOKWANE – The message from police in the city is clear; no vigilantism will be tolerated.
This comes after several reported incidents in which people falsely claim to be members of their community policing forum (CPF) and then commit crimes says Polokwane police spokesperson, Capt Ntobeng Phala.
These incidents include people being assaulted, property such as cellphones “confiscated” and gaining access to places they are not authorised to enter.
“These actions are not only illegal, but taking the wrong action without the necessary training can be lethal.”
At recent CPF meetings emphasis was made on the importance of having properly trained civilians acting within the CPF and acting within the regulations under which CPFs resort.
Phala said the CPF is a mandatory body as stated in the South African Police Service Act 68 of 1995. The Act contains a set code of conduct and disciplinary proceedings, which are applicable to all members of CPFs.
The powers and functions of a CPF in the constitution is as follows:
1. Promote accountability of the local police to the community and cooperation of the community with local police.
2. Evaluate the provision of services such as patrolling of residential and business areas, keeping records, writing reports, and making recommendations to the police and community on the fight against crime.
3. Evaluation of proper functioning structures.
4. Facilitate mediation in community conflicts.
“These powers and functions are only legal when you are actually part of a CPF, if not, you are acting outside the law and can be prosecuted,” Phala warned.
If you want to get involved join the CPF in your area and become part of the strong bond between the police and the community in the fight against crime, Phala advised.
Read more:
CPF safety tips and emergency numbers
Why joining the CPF is so important
