Western Cape neighbourhood watches lauded for their work in communities

The Western Cape Minister of Community Safety and Police Oversight, Reagen Allen, has commended neighbourhood watches for their work in communities.

Allen recently joined the neighbourhood watch in Tafelsig in Mitchells Plain on their nightly patrols.

Allen says the teams are essential to every community as they help law enforcement keep residents safe.

“I aim to conduct patrols across the Western Cape, as this will assist in obtaining a true picture of how our brave volunteers are curbing crime in their communities. We will only be able to overcome crime if all stakeholders, which includes the different spheres of government, the private sector, and civil society at large work and stand together as one. I want to assure our amazing crime fighters in the 441 accredited neighbourhood watches across the province that through my department, we will continue with our full support.”

Meanwhile, a 23-year-old man has been arrested at Kraaifontein in Cape Town after he was allegedly found in possession of an unlicensed firearm.

Police Spokesperson, Joseph Swartbooi, says members of the provincial task team were on patrol in the area when they spotted the suspect.

“The 23-year-old man was arrested and detained when he was found in possession of a 9mm pistol and ammunition. Once charged, the suspect is expected to make a court appearance in the Blue Downs Magistrate’s Court on a charge of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.”