New Empangeni CPF committee ready to fight crime
Newly elected Chairperson Zonita Grobbelaar said she was looking forward to working with the community and the police
FOLLOWING months of deliberation, Empangeni residents have finally elected a new Community Policing Forum (CPF) Executive Committee which will work hand-in-hand with residents, local security companies and the police to combat crime plaguing the town.
Newly elected Chairperson Zonita Grobbelaar said she was looking forward to working with the community and the police.
‘We have a good relationship with SAPS and will be discussing patrols and looking at going into areas which we deem hot spots for criminal activity.
‘But we need the input of the community. Without the community we wouldn’t exist.
‘Meetings will be held at least once a month. Regular meetings are crucial as the modus operandi of criminal activity is constantly changing,’ said Grobbelaar.
Incidents of criminals gaining access to homes through roofs, for example, have once again reared its head.
ALSO READ: New Empangeni CPF committee elected
Public drinking
Amid confusion over the legalities of drinking in public, Empangeni Station Commander, Brigadier Jeros Thango, confirmed that it was in fact legal in KZN.
‘Drinking in public is legal in KZN. We are the second province in the country that legalised it.
‘We have approached the Liquor Board to look into the matter, but they said their hands were tied as the law had already been passed. It can only be challenged after three years.
‘However, we are working with the municipality to implement new by-laws in terms of drinking in public.
‘It is a problem for police as drinking is a contributing factor to crime in communities,’ said Thango.
The burning of copper cables, illegal dumping, noise pollution and illegal street mechanics were among the other issues discussed at the meeting.
The newly elected Empangeni CPF Executive Committee consists of the following members – Zonita Grobbelaar (Chairperson), Devon Godwin (Deputy Chairperson), Kevin Sukreben (Secretary), Dr Lance Giles (Vice Secretary), Calvin Patterson (Treasurer) and Mike Patterson (Public Relations Officer).
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
