CPF back in action after being called on by provincial executive
Neighbourhood watches return to the streets to assist police
It is now all hands on deck as Community Policing Forums, neighbourhood watches and their patrollers have been called upon to join the fight against the fallout from the coronavirus lockdown. Three days into the lockdown and after cries for a change of heart, the Gauteng Executive Council issued the invitation for community reinforcements.
Roodepoort CPF Chairperson, Petrus Lehaiwa, sent out the call on Sunday, 29 March, asking his charges to assemble at Roodepoort City Hall at 11am that morning. From there, the various sectors were briefed on their responsibilities and sent out to again be the eyes and ears of the police. “We will still be under the command of the police, and we are here to help them,” said Petrus.
The number of patrollers allowed is limited, and each patroller needs to have photo identification and the relevant permit. “Our duties have been explained and we have chosen our most dedicated volunteers. First we are going to work out the hot spots, and relay any trouble to the police,” outlined CPF Deputy Chairperson, Louis Walker.
The CPF will first help the community adhere to the social-distancing directive, compile a liquor-outlet directory, and conduct its usual crime-prevention patrols. The community has once again been adequately linked with the might of the police force, so residents may again sleep slightly easier knowing their community is protected from within.
