Displaced people, robberies and other issues discussed at Sophiatown police sector 3 meeting

The Sector 3 crime forum chairman has shared some key points from their most recent meeting.

The Sophiatown Sector 3 crime forum hosted their monthly general meeting on 15 August and it was attended by members of the forum, residents, ward councillors, security companies, Metro police, and Sophiatown Police Station.

Forum chairperson and Roosevelt Park resident Andrew Burger said that although crime is going down, residents still need to be careful and vigilant. He highlighted a few of the issues that came out of the meeting. “Alberts Farm is still a big problem. The number of displaced people living there is on the increase.”

He added that authorities have been hard at work to find a solution to the problem.

Other issues mentioned at the meeting were those of petty crimes such as theft and public drinking. Burger said, “Domestic workers and children are being targeted by criminals as they walk the streets. The corner of Long and West Road in Greymont has lots of public drinking, especially during the weekends.”

West Park Cemetery was also a hot topic at the meeting as questions and concerns raised by residents were directed towards Metro police and Ward 88 councillor David Hensman. Among these concerns was the chaos involved with funeral processions at the popular grave site. Residents accused Metro police of not doing enough to keep law and order.

Burger stated that crime had gone down in the sector which covers the suburbs Albertskroon, Albertsville, Alberts Farm, East Town, Greymont, Montgomery Park, Northcliff Ext 13, Roosevelt Park, Waterval Estate and West Park. “Last month we had 47 reported incidents, this month we are sitting at 34.”

He attributed the decrease to the increased visibility of Sophiatown police. Burger added that there have been operations taking place in the area more constantly thanks to the new station commander, Brigadier Alfred Ndebele.

Burger thanked all those who attended the meeting and contributed to it and gave a special mention to Sophiatown Police Station’s officers. “We are thankful to Brigadier Ndebele, Warrant Officer Steyn and Colonel Govender as they are always there for us. Anytime we need something, they will make sure it’s done and we ensure that we can help them out in any way they need.”

The next Sophiatown Sector 3 crime forum will be held on 16 September at the Roosevelt Park Bowling Club at 7pm. Residents are urged to attend the meeting.

Related article:

https://northeasterntribune.co.za/230172/residents-encouraged-to-participate-in-cpf-meeting/