Mitchell's Plain imbizo fosters community safety and police collaboration
The Mitchell's Plain sub-district imbizo, held in partnership with Strandfontein SAPS and the Strandfontein Community Police Forum (CPF) on Saturday May 24, served as a vital platform for residents and key stakeholders to come together and address pressing concerns about crime in the area.
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Residents and key stakeholders came together on Saturday May 24 for the Mitchell's Plain sub-district imbizo, held in partnership with Strandfontein SAPS and the Strandfontein Community Police Forum (CPF), to tackle urgent concerns about crime in the area.
Sandy Schuter, deputy chairperson of the Mitchell's Plain sub-district and chairperson of the Strandfontein CPF, described the meeting as productive and empowering, allowing community members to voice their challenges and engage with authorities directly.
The event was attended by representatives from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Western Cape MEC for Policing Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais, the Department of Correctional Services, and various registered community organizations.
Ms Marais delivered the keynote address, offering valuable insights into the province’s approach to policing oversight and strategies for enhancing community safety. Representatives from the NPA and Department of Correctional Services also participated in discussions, engaging openly with attendees.
Strandfontein SAPS station commander, Captain Jolen Antoine, presented an overview of crime trends and statistics within the local precinct.
Catherine van Rooyen, 70, a Strandfontein resident who attended the meeting, said she was generally pleased with the outcome.
However, she said, certain concerns were not adressed, adding that more crime imbizos should be held regularly to keep the community informed and involved.
Ms Schuter also presented a three-month feedback report on CPF activities and progress.
“This kind of engagement enables the CPF and SAPS to refine our strategies, optimise resource allocation, and strengthen overall safety and security in Strandfontein,” she said.
Sub-council 17 chairperson and Ward 43 councillor Elton Jansen facilitated discussions focused on municipal issues affecting public safety and service delivery in Strandfontein.
Brigadier Brian Muller of Mitchell’s Plain SAPS reaffirmed the sub-district’s commitment to supporting Strandfontein through coordinated cross-border operations and inter-agency collaboration.