Jeppe SAPS Sector Four Crime Forum had a meeting on March 28 at Benrose.
Sector 4 chairperson Madoda Yende said he was pleased with the progress made on train station safety, which was raised in the previous meeting.
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“The stakeholders met with Prasa and Railway SAPS to discuss a way forward on the issue of safety for its passengers. There’s progress in fighting crime at railway stations. We are glad the problem was taken seriously,” said Yende.
He said loadshedding has added an element of crime in the area and they as the community are concerned.
“Cables are being stolen during loadshedding. Thieves broke into the meter room along Ruben Road. We have warned residents to be careful and vigilant during loadshedding.
“We have spoken to the police and pleaded with them to help in the area with patrols. JMPD has been patrolling during the loadshedding because that is when the criminals go to the meter rooms,” said Yende.
A concern was raised about the M2 highway construction and how it has affected the area.
“As the M2 highway is closed, this led to traffic escalating through our area. We advise motorist to be vigilant and careful because smash-and-grabs are happening at the traffic lights.
“Drivers must be careful when they are in traffic. Keep your window closed and be aware of your surroundings,” said Yende.
With the Easter holidays around the corner, the forum urged the community and businesses in the area to be careful during this holiday.
“We advise shop owners not to operate until late at night because that makes them targets. Residents must be careful walking with cellphones at night because it attracts criminals.
“We advise both business owners and residents to report any suspicious occurrences in the area,” said Yende.
Another issue was raised about events being hosted without permits in Jeppe Park on Gus Street.
“Organisers must apply with the proper department. Jeppe police and JMPD have the right to remove you if you don’t have the necessary documentation to host an event in that park.
“We will meet with organisers in the area to discuss this with them,” said Yende.
He urged the community to work together with the police to get rid of crime in the area.
“Crime affects all of us. It is not an individual problem but affects all of us. We must work together if we want to get rid of crime in our areas and make it safe.
“If you see something that should be reported to the police go and report it,” said Yende.
The next meeting will be held on April 25 at 35 New Goch Road in Benrose.
For more information, contact Yende on 072 754 5388 or 078 3014 163 or email yendem.sapno@gmail.com
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