Amanzimtoti CPF wins top awards

THE Amanzimtoti Community Police Forum (ACPF) was recognised as the top community police forum (CPF) in the eThekwini Metro at the SAPS eThekwini District Excellence Awards 2024, held in Durban on September 6.

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ACPF chairperson Merlene Matthew was also honoured with a certificate of excellence for her outstanding efforts in mobilising the community to take an active role in safeguarding their neighbourhoods.

The ACPF executive committee praised Matthew, attributing these achievements to her exceptional leadership since assuming the role three years ago.

“Her commitment to fulfilling the CPF’s objectives and mission is truly remarkable. Under her leadership, the CPF has thrived as a government-mandated community-safety structure. This is evident in the successful collaboration between the Amanzimtoti Police, private security firms and the community, which has resulted in the establishment of six CPF sub-forums, five neighbourhood watch groups, as well as the CPF Social Crime Forum, the SAPS Spiritual Network and the SAPS Youth Crime Prevention Desk. We hope this award serves as motivation for the year ahead,” the committee said.

The CPF executive committee members, who play a vital role in uniting various safety structures, providing essential crime-fighting training for patrollers and spearheading visibility operations and camera projects, were also commended.

“These initiatives empower our volunteer patrollers, who selflessly dedicate their time and resources, ultimately enhancing the safety and security of the entire community,” the statement added.

Ward 97 councillor André Beetge also congratulated Matthew and the ACPF on the well-deserved recognition.

“It is through these public-private partnerships between the community and the police that we can work towards finding real solutions to eradicate crime. Join the winning team by becoming a member of your local neighbourhood watch today,” said Beetge.

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