LEAP officers deployed into sub-council 12 wards
LEAP (Law Enforcement Advancement Programme) and NSO (Neighbourhood Safety Officers) were deployed on Tuesday September 30 in sub-council 12 to improve community safety.
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The LEAP (Law Enforcement Advancement Programme) and NSO (Neighbourhood Safety Officers) have been deployed across sub-council 12 in Mitchell’s Plain to help address crime hotspots and enhance collaboration between law enforcement and local communities.
The deployment aims to ensure LEAP and NSO officers are present in key areas across sub-council 12 to work with police, neighborhood watchers, and community members.
On Tuesday, September 30, the officers, sub-council 12 councillors, and community leaders also went into the communities within the wards.
Solomon Philander, sub-council 12 chairperson.
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Solomon Philander, sub-council 12 chairperson, said: “I am convinced we have more good in Mitchell’s Plain. This is a moment to say we will rise. Without the community, we can do nothing.”
Colin De Hart, chairperson of the Beacon Valley neighbourhood watch, spoke about local safety needs. “I work in the town centre. I support this deployment. The neighbourhood watch knows the hotspots. Now that we have extra hands, this should help in fighting crime,” he said.
Deidre Petersen, Eastridge neighbourhood watch chairperson, said there is a need for LEAP officers in schools. “I came from a school meeting where there is a big need for LEAP to be deployed. We will continue to work with SAPS to keep our communities safe,” she said.
Charmaine Adams, treasurer of Mitchell's Plain Community Police Forum (CPF).
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Charmaine Adams, treasurer of Mitchell's Plain Community Police Forum (CPF), encouraged officers to maintain professionalism. “I want to encourage you to be focused, do not be biased, respect yourself, your leaders, and colleagues. When we go out there, we need to be united. May the blessing of the Lord be with you,” she said.
Washiela Harris, ward 82 councillor, said the deployment will involve collaboration between LEAP, SAPS, and neighborhood watchers. “They will work together to make our area safer and more accessible for businesses to come in and increase our economy. We conducted a walkthrough with police, law enforcement, and neighborhood watches, and this will happen regularly to keep our community safe.”
Leroy Heyns, senior inspector and law enforcement officer, thanked the community for its cooperation. “We won’t have the successes we do without your input. It is not just a duty but a calling. Thank you to SAPS for your support so we can fight crime together,” he said.