14 hours ago
Suurman CPF tackles crime-infested streets with nothing but whistles and torches
Suurman CPF tackles crime-infested streets with nothing but whistles and torches
A group of dedicated community members are adamant about keeping their streets safe and crime-free.
They do this by patrolling the streets of Temba in Hammanskraal with nothing but whistles, torches, and a deep sense of commitment to keeping their neighbourhood safe.
This is the reality of the Suurman Community Policing Forum (CPF) led by founder and chairperson, Shadrack Skhosana.
Operating under the Temba Police Station, Suurman CPF has been recognised as one of the most effective CPFs in the area, despite struggling with limited resources and minimal police support.
The team conducts daily patrols, especially after 18:00, focusing on high-crime zones such as bus stops where streetlights are not functioning.
'We receive a lot of tips from our community WhatsApp group, and we respond as best we can with the little we have,' said Skhosana.
The CPF faces an array of challenges. Common crimes in the area include cable theft, house break-ins, robberies, vehicle battery thefts, smash-and-grabs, and cases of gender-based violence, rape, and murder.
While crime initially decreased after the CPF was formed, Skhosana noted that it is rising again due to the lack of police backup.
Despite these obstacles, the CPF continues to make significant contributions.
Skhosana said one of their most notable successes was tracing suspects in the rape and murder case of Nthabiseng Mabuso, who was killed on November 3, 2023.
He said the forum alerted police, who arrested the suspects.
'The case is still ongoing at Temba Magistrate's Court, but sadly, the main suspect, with three other murder cases against him, was granted bail and is now missing,' he said.
Beyond crime prevention, the CPF extended its support to broader community needs.
'We helped an 18-year-old who couldn't get an ID because her birth certificate said she was born in Namibia. Within two months, we helped her get a South African ID. We also assist children without birth certificates and pensioners struggling with their Sassa documents,' he added.
The CPF also works hand-in-hand with the organisation Change With Elevation.
They support school safety by positioning Sector 3 patrollers at school gates and running awareness campaigns and imbizos.
Skhosana said community participation remains low due to past incidents where residents were arrested for mob justice.
'Our biggest challenges are transport and infrastructure. We need a 15-seater minibus, a few cars, and an empty stand to use as an office.
'It's not easy, but you have to love your community. With or without a budget, you have to be strong and carry on.'
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