Street meeting reduces crime on Bluff streets
RESIDENTS in a crime-ridden part of the Bluff stood shoulder-to-shoulder at a street meeting on Thursday, 29 August as they discussed ways to protect themselves and their neighbourhood.
The meeting was the second in a series of street meetings planned for Winchelsea Avenue and surrounds, which has been plagued with crime, including theft, prostitution and drug-dealing. The first meeting was held two weeks previously, with encouraging results, according to organiser and Community Oriented Policing chairman, Rake Jeeves.
“The police attended the meeting and stepped up patrols in the area, which has had a very positive effect. There is already a visible improvement in the area in that there aren’t as many shady characters hanging around and we haven’t heard of any crime-related incidents since holding the meetings,” said Rake.
The second meeting was well-attended by residents, COP members, Tactical Security and the Bluff Ratepayers Association. Glenwood Community Policing members also attended to gather insight into the Bluff’s COP operations.
“COP members have been doing foot patrols around the Winchelsea and Donnely roads area and combined with the street meetings and increased SAP patrols, things have already improved. If we all work together we can reduce crime and improve our areas.”
Rake said the meetings serve two purposes. “One is obviously to get residents together; to get to know each other and to suggest ways they can look after each other. The second reason for holding the meeting in the actual street is a deterrent to criminals because word spreads quickly that residents are getting organised and are standing together.”
More street meetings are planned and have been held in many streets on the Bluff over the years. “In these areas we have noticed an immediate drop off of crime.”
– erinh@dbn.caxton.co.za
