Key crime issues discussed at workshop
'If CPF members arrive at a scene as first responders, the scene remains under their control until handed over to the SAPS'
THE formation of a Community Policing Forum (CPF) established by a police station commander is prescribed by legislation.
It is unlawful for SAPS to function without a CPF.
This is according to Advocate Nzeza speaking at a workshop presented by the Department of Safety Liaison, aimed at fighting crime and discussing the legal framework within which community safety structures should function.
‘The CPF is a forum for discussing issues – there is no CPF meeting without police or community.
‘You cannot separate the two because the objective is to fight crime together,’ he said.
Community crime prevention associations are also not unlawful, because the constitution provides citizens the right of freedom of association, as long as organisations adhere to the law and not engage in vigilantism.
CPF members, SAPS and ward councillors raised a variety of concerns at the forum at Arboretum Primary School earlier this month, including the absence of a district surgeon for the city, the clearing of green belts, preservation of crime scenes, sworn statements and communication barriers at various levels.
The department has an oversight function and monitors police by investigating service delivery complaints and referrals to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate. (IPID) and maintaining structures already established by SAPS.
He said complainants must however follow protocol when inquiring about a case, starting with the investigating officer, followed by the branch commander, station commander, cluster commander and finally the department.
According to Advocate Nzeza, minister Nathi Mthethwa initiated a stipend for standby CPF members, which has been politically approved, but must still reach the executive authority to draft legislation.
Volunteers are currently funding their own fuel costs and other expenses.
Further matters which required clarity included clashes at crime scenes between different role players, including the CPF, traffic department and fire department.
He said if CPF members arrive at a scene as first responders, the scene remains under their control until handed over to the SAPS.
‘Videos and photos can help to gather evidence without disturbing the scene. No one is allowed to interfere with a crime scene.’
He also stressed the importance of noting times, events and other information in a pocket book.
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