Elections for Muldersdrift CPF Sectors 1, 2 and 3 are expected to be held this week. The community policing forum works alongside security companies and police officials during crime-prevention efforts and when making arrests. The patroller system focuses on hot spots as they occur, while sharing information with community members to increase visibility.
Sam Barale from Muldersdrift CPF said it was important that people get involved by attending sector meetings to discuss security-related issues, and joining CPF WhatsApp groups in order to receive alerts. “The CPF has evolved into more than eyes and ears. We initiated a community-based food initiative on 2 April 2020. During this past year R1 million worth of maize was supplied to the Muldersdrift area along with a ton of vegetables per day at times. This was done along with generous community donations of groceries and soup kitchens that were put in place to prevent starving during Covid,” she said. She explained that the initiative has gradually been replaced by more sustainable structures such as the local church.
The CPF deals with crime prevention, assists with cases of domestic violence, does victim support, addresses complaints regarding police and various other complaints all on a 24-hour basis. Barale said patrollers also attend to vehicle accidents scenes, assist with traffic flow, and request the necessary EMS services.
“Being a volunteer for the CPF can be time-consuming, especially if crime increases; however, the passion we have for community safety prevails despite the financial and risk challenges it presents,” she added.
