MEC for Community Safety visits Westbury
Drug patrols and awareness were done by the MEC, SAPS and other officials in the area.
The MEC for Community Safety Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane did patrolling in Westbury, Newclare, Kathrada Park and all the other surrounding areas.
Together with some of her officials, traffic police and SAPS they did a drug drive and door to door with members of the community.
This as part of her plan to reduce drug usage and lolly lounges in the area.
“We want to form a partnership with the community in reducing drug usage in the area.
“We cannot do anything without the help of the community,” said Nkosi-Malobane.
Later around 6pm there was also a public meeting to address safety issues in the area and Nkosi-Malobane was the guest speaker.
Delegates present were Ward Councillors Katja Naumann, Bazil Douglas and Steve Kotze was there.
The station commander for Sophiatown SAPS Brigadier Susan Crafford, Chairperson for Corporate and Shared Services at Metro Centre Cathy Seefort, James Lorimer and the CPF were all present to answer questions and submit complaints to the MEC.
Naumann spoke on behalf of ward 69.
“Residents of ward 69 are suffering tremendously due to the lack of effective crime prevention and law enforcement.
“The area is plagued by housebreaking, murders and the drug trade.
“We need to improve visible policing and sentencing of criminals by the Sophiatown Police,” said Naumann.
Crafford mentioned little resources are available to the police.
“We do not have enough resources available to us.
“Our informers are also not enough and we need the community to get involved,” said Crafford.
There was a question and answer session for the residents.
One resident Noleen Oakes mentioned that the MEC always comes but nothing happens thereafter.
“Our ward councillors and leadership is never around.
“They are never available but enjoy calling meetings,” said Oakes.
The MEC gave her response.
“We have to call meetings to alert the people of our plans.
“We will also be arranging for operation “Fiela” to reduce drug dealers,” said Nkosi-Malobane.
