CPFs and neighbouhood watches on lockdown

Police Minister Bheki Cele has placed Community Policing Forums and neighbourhood watches across the country on lockdown, much to the dismay of several. Many who belong to the community structures believe that the ban on CPFs and neighbourhood watches will increase crime in the areas.

Chairperson of the Athlone Park CPF, Merlene Matthew, expressed her thoughts and feelings on the matter. “I am very disappointed in the minister’s unwillingness to allow us to patrol our neighbourhoods. These structures have a good relationship with local stations and his comment of accountability is far-fetched. If it was a legitimate issue, why was this not discussed before and efforts made to resolve his fears. Our patrollers of the CPFs have signed a code of conduct and know what is expected, I trust them to not expose themselves to the virus and take the precautions as set out by the government.”

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Despite not being out on the frontline, she commends officers from SAPS, Metro Police, law enforcement and security companies for their heroic actions.

“As they say, many hands make light work and while our crime fighters are doing a sterling job, they have limited resources and can’t be everywhere. Residents need to understand and be patient. Our residents are complying with the lockdown however, vagrants and beggars are still a major issue in all areas which we sympathise with due to the high poverty level in this country,” she said.

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