The Norwood CPF held a Sector 1 public meeting to introduce the new station commander to residents and to discuss issues related to crime in the precinct.
Norwood Police Station Commander, Colonel Logan Govender said, “I am thrilled to be stationed at Norwood and hope to build on the previous good work of the station and to improve in areas where we are lacking.”
“Our intention is to dramatically reduce crime across all levels. I also want the station to stop being a reactive body but to become a proactive station by arresting someone for possession of an illegal firearm rather than the arrest for an armed robbery.”
In a brief overview of the sector, he highlighted that Toyota Fortuna bakkies were being targeted by criminals and warned drivers not to park them on the street if at all possible. “Please ensure your vehicles are locked when you walk away and try to park in well-lit areas.”
He also added that there has been an increase in the theft of shopping bags being taken out of trolleys at shopping centres and discouraged shoppers from allowing guards to assist them with taking trolleys to their vehicles. “At all times when out and about it is important to be aware of your surroundings and who is near you if you have any valuables or items that could be stolen.”
CPF chairman Wayne Preston said building alliances and partnerships with organisations and companies are crucial. “We continue to build good relationships with private security companies in our precinct as they are an essential crime-fighting partner. Our relationship with the Norwood Orchards Residents Association (Nora) and the Lower Houghton Ratepayers Association is also extremely important to our goals of building cohesive communties in which we serve.”
Ward 74 councillor Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku raised concerns about people loitering in her area. Govender said, “It is hoped that most of the public parks could be fenced off with access controls in place once the environmental issues have been sorted. This would make a huge difference.” She spoke about people coming to the area from as far away as Witbank in order to beg and loiter outside restaurants asking people for money and ‘doggy bags’ which is problematic for businesses and their patrons.
JMPD Superintendent Amos Kganyago said, “There are new recruits who have joined the force which is good news but comes with some challenges. The additional manpower has not been met with additional vehicles stretching an already lean fleet even further.” He said it is not uncommon for four to five officers needing to cram into one vehicle which is unsafe and reduces the spread of the officers.
In conclusion, Govender said, “We encourage the community to work and walk with us as we turn over a new leaf and tackle the many issues facing our precinct.
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