Crime is still a major issue in our communities and it is up to the community to combat it together with the help of the police.
The Meadowlands Zone 2 residents held their first meeting where they introduced the new sector, one executive and sector manager so that the residents know where to go and who to contact in cases of emergency.
The meeting took place at Tlhokomela Primary School and the community raised concerns about the high usage of alcohol and drug abuse in the community, as well as identifying hot spots.
The major issue was the park in Zone 2 which, according to the residents, is neglected and fast becoming a crime hotspot in the area.
- Slovo residents tired of the disconnections – [also read]
They complained bitterly about the poor service they receive at the police station and said that victims were turned away when they go to the police station to report crime. The Community Policing Forum’s role was also discussed and residents requested greater visibility from the CPF.
Captain Thinadavha Lufhugu addressed the cannabis issue and advised the assembled residents that even though it has been legalised for private use, this does not allow underage children to smoke in public.
Lufhugu said, “We will continue to make arrests as the ruling is clear that this would be for private use only.”
He further informed the community that there are patrollers who wake up every morning to ensure that everyone is safe and that there are CPF offices at the Meadowlands Police Station which are available for those who seek assistance.
- ‘Poverty in my community is rife and seems never-ending’ – [also read]
A parent raised their concern about the park as there were so many gamblers.
Tshepo Nkosi of the Greater Meadowlands CPF said, “Mofolo and Thokoza Park residents took it upon themselves to ensure that those areas were crime free. I suggest that we do the same with our park. Our children are out of control and we would like the police to assist us because we are tired as parents.”
Lufhugu said that the park was not only the police’s responsibility, but that collective responsibility should be shared by presenting a united front against crime to make it safe again.
“Some matters need our urgent attention. We can’t ignore a robbery and attend to children. Sometimes it is a matter of priority,” said Lufhugu.
Follow Us Here:
Catch the latest news by visiting our other platforms: