Successful Mountain Rise CPF meeting held in Copesville
The Mountain Rise SAPS Community Policing Forum (CPF) last week hosted a meeting attended by crime watch groups, members of the community and the police in Copesville.
The aim of the meeting was to discuss issues prevalent in their areas.
The major issue discussed by all members was the escalation of various crimes like theft, robbery, home invasions and substance abuse.
CPF chairperson, Sham Govender, said that they are working on solutions to eradicate the scourge of crime.
“Operations are being conducted to stop crime in the area. We know that community groups are working together to stop incidents. There is a vicious circle regarding drug abuse and prostitution in the communities. We are dealing with it. We urge people not to create a market for it in their areas,” Govender said.
The delegates were also urged not to send fake messages and reports on community chat groups as it creates panic amongst community members.
Acting Mountain Rise SAPS station commander, Colonel Mazibuko, thanked the community members for their support and for working with the police. He urged them to report the incidents in their area when they occur.
“Don’t wait for a surge in crime; report incidents immediately. If you report a crime, make sure you follow up on the case. When you report a case against someone, don’t just do it when you are angry and then withdraw the case. It is a long process to open cases. Open a case and make sure it is finalised in court. From this we will be able to gauge what the issues are in the area and we will know what the statistics are.
“Crime is a concern for the police as it affects individuals and communities. We appreciate it when you give us information. Without you we won’t be here discussing these issues. We urge you to report crime as we find there is more than reported. We are doing our best to arrest people for their crimes. There is a list of people that we are looking for. So, I am inviting you to come and assist us,” Mazibuko said.