Community patrollers were out in numbers during the festive season, in different policing precincts, fighting against crime and their efforts did not go unnoticed.
The Gauteng Department of Community Safety deployed about 2372 community patrollers alongside police officers to increase policing visibility. The areas being patrolled included malls, recreational parks and taxi ranks.
Wanted suspects were identified while stolen vehicles were recovered by these community patrollers who also ensured the safety of pedestrians in the identified hazardous locations.
Their presence assisted in foiling a rape incident last week in Florida Park, Roodepoort. The suspect is expected to appear in court soon.
This vigilance extended to Ekurhuleni where a wanted suspect, targeting patrons who frequent the mall, was arrested. Stolen goods were recovered in Mamelodi, Tshwane following a community Patroller’s assistance.
The Gauteng Department of Community Safety’s Spokesperson, Ofentse Morwane, commended the community patrollers’ presence on the streets and emphasised the important role they play in society.
“Community Policing Forums are important structures in the crime fighting initiatives within the province. These achievements and many others demonstrate that the Department’s call for active citizenry in the fight against crime is bearing fruits.
“Community Police Forums and Community Patrollers are important components towards realisation of the safety of all residents in the province. The Gauteng Department of Community Safety therefore welcomes and commends the role that community police forums are playing in our communities”, said Morwane.
