Athlone community engages in crime-fighting dialogue with police.

Athlone community safety structures, together with various government departments, met with Ward 49 residents in a community Imbizo on Saturday, October 11, to address confusion surrounding crime reporting as violent crime in the area continues to rise.

The community has expressed concerns about the lack of police response and the unsatisfactory living conditions they face. According to the local Community Policing Forum (CPF), residents have raised issues regarding the poor working relationship between themselves and the police, which is hindering crime-fighting efforts.

CPF chairperson Vernon Piedt said that the complaint should be the other way around, as the community hardly reports crime, and when they do, it is often to the wrong departments.

"We need to strengthen our relationship, as communities are the ears and eyes of the police on the ground," he said.

"We invited people to come and ask questions, but we also want them to come up with solutions. Family and friends are involved in crime. We need a stronger relationship with the community. Together, we must fight against drugs in the community. Drugs are killing our children. We are here to engage and learn from one another. We would have loved to have the youths here, but we plan to hold another Imbizo to encourage more youth participation," he said.

Mr Piedt further stated that gangs have no place in the community and questioned why individuals would allow themselves to be led by gangs.

"Why should our children be scared to go to school? The community must work with us because crime happens in communities. Police cannot fight crime alone without our support. We need to strengthen our relationship and be able to report crime," he said.

The Imbizo was attended by a handful of individuals, which Mr Piedt criticised, expressing disappointment that the youth chose to stay away.

Athlone police station commander Colonel Junaid Alcock called on communities to continue assisting the police in reducing the high crime rate in the area. He commended the Imbizo but suggested that such meetings should occur more frequently, perhaps every two months.

"Athlone is facing contact crimes like murder, and another challenge we face is gang violence," he noted.

“Gang violence is at the forefront. In Vygerskraals, there are two gang factions. We have been there every day for the last three weeks, but we will not give up in the fight against crime."

Colonel Alcock urged the community of Vygeskraal to come forward and report crimes.

"Our job is to bring justice," he said.

He also warned the community that with the festive season approaching, crime rates are likely to rise. He advised residents with older vehicles, such as Toyotas, Mazdas, and Isuzus, to be vigilant, as these cars are often targeted for theft.

"Make sure to park your vehicles securely, preferably behind a gate."

Ward 49 councillor Rashid Adams said: "Now that neighbourhood watches have bicycles and jackets, something is happening. However, it is crucial for the community to work with the police and join these watches. We need to collaborate to overcome our problems. Supporting each other is essential."