Strandfontein police station took second place in the category for police station of the year at the prestigious Provincial Police Service Excellence Awards, held on Saturday November 23.
They shared the news with the community members at their Strandfontein SAPS Sector 2 imbizo meeting on Thursday November 28, held at the Nazarene Church in Bayview.
Station commander, Captain David Malong said he was humbled to have received the award for the station.
“We couldn’t have been more proud. We could not have done this if it weren’t for the community who believed in us and supported us,” he said.
At the meeting, they also spoke about ongoing crime in the area and what could be done to combat it.
“People need to be more vigilant in the silly season. We need to be aware of who is in our area and report it immediately,” said Captain Malong, who made special mention of the community safety structures which he said were working diligently to keep people safe.
Bernie Clarke, PR councillor for Ward 43, congratulated SAPS on a job well done.
“The area is working well. The people want to be a part of this, we are moving in the right direction.”
And was not only the patrollers, but also those who help spread information, who were helping to fight crime, said Ms Clarke.
“Because of the keyboard warriors, those behind their phones helping us fight crime, we know what is happening in our community.”
Quintin Griffith, vice-chairperson of the Strandfontein Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association, however, wasn’t as thrilled about the award.
“This would mean Strandfontein won’t get an upgrade to the standard it should be,” he said and noted that he would like to see the season plans and make sure all safety structures were informed about them.
In response, Captain Malong assured Mr Griffith, there were structures in place to prevent crime and that “the success lies in the work that the community is doing”.
Eugene Petersen, vice chairperson Strandfontein Sector 2 Forum, said there was an increase in the number of street committees as well as block watch members.
“I also want to encourage the community to support the fund-raising efforts, as the money earned is used for necessary equipment for the safety structures. We can’t do it without our community,” he said.
Mr Petersen encouraged all to be vigilant and safe during the festive season and report any crime in the area.