COMMUNITY Police Forum (CPF) patrollers are largely responsible for the dramatic decline in criminal activities in Meerensee.
This is according to Richards Bay SAPS’ Brigadier Brenda Mgenge, speaking to community members at a public meeting on Wednesday evening.
She congratulated the non-profit organisation for its ‘hands on’ work to help protect residents in the suburb.
‘In September last year the area was classified as a serious crimes hot spot,’ said Brigadier Mgenge.
‘I am pleased to announce this is no longer the case because of the vibrant CPF team’s committed work..
‘We, as the police, promise to continue to interact with you on a daily basis and maintain this successful partnership.’
She conceded though that burglaries during the day are still prevalent in the neighbourhood.
‘Property crimes when people are at work is unfortunately a problem that persists in Meerensee.
‘Some of these suspects have been arrested by the CPF and SAPS members, but to help stop the burglaries we established two task teams in January who work day in and day out on crime prevention measures.’
Community concerns
Attendees at the meeting submitted various requests to the brigadier, including that a member of the justice department attends the next meeting and that police members abusing their authority be disciplined.
‘The CPF and police catch and put away criminals, only so they can be released again by a judge. Our justice system fails us,’ said one community member.
Mgenge promised to follow up on both requests.
