19 October, 2010
17 October, 2010
Follow-up Letter on Randburg Sun Article re: Speed Bumps
I have to agree with Dr W Boshoff who submitted this letter to the Randburg Sun in response to the article relating to Speed Bumps of 08.09.2010. I too was quite shocked by Ward Councillor Don Forbes' apathy on the matter, and furthermore, the fact that he was aware of the problem, but not addressing it (as yet), apparently.
(Click on article to enlarge)
12 October, 2010
Next CPF Meeting - November 9
Email from Linden SAPS Admin: 12.10.2010:
The next CPF Meeting will be held on Tuesday 9 November from 6pm.
During the last two months Sectors 1, 2 and 3 have all successfully launched their sectors and Sector 4 is underway. The next CPF meeting will however be held in November to give sectors more time to mobilise and organise.
The November CPF meeting will primarily focus on a review of each sector. Each sector team is asked to present a summary outline of the status and plans for the sector.
The provincial commissioner, Mzwandile Petros has been invited to attend the November Linden CPF meeting. We await confirmation.
The CPF executive is available should sectors require any additional assistance in getting the sectors going. Please call or send an email to admin@lindensaps.co.za
Sector emails have been established should communities want more information on the sector:
The next CPF Meeting will be held on Tuesday 9 November from 6pm.
Linden Community Police Forum
08 October, 2010
Sector Policing Is Here!
Introduction to Sector Policing
On Monday evening (04.10.2010) I attended the Linden Community Policing Forum Sector 3 inception meeting. It was well attended by representatives from Sector 3. Despite the fact that we (RERA) now fall into Sector 1, this meeting was still very valuable. The change of Robindale East from Sector 3 to Sector 1 took place at a prior meeting, to which we were not invited. The rational for this is included in a prior posting (see here http://robindale-east.blogspot.com/2010/10/robindale-included-in-sector-1-of.html).
At the commencement of the meeting we were introduced to a number of role-players, as follows:
• Colonel Mohale (Station Commander)
• Captain Vermaak (Head of Crime Prevention and Sector Policing)
• Jadd Harding (Chairman of the Linden Community Policing Forum / LCPF)
• George Bezuidenhout (Head of Reservists)
• Shaun Scott (Vice-Chairman of the Linden Community Policing Forum / LCPF)
• WO Bokkie Kildare (Head of Sector 3)
• WO Walter Spencer (Head of Sector 1)
• Martin Opperman (who arranged these meetings – thank you)
Please note: apologies for spelling or inaccuracies, as I didn’t get all the details.
Colonel Mohale was introduced by Martin Opperman. The Colonel did a brief introduction, stating that Sector Policing:
• Is about sub-dividing the precinct into more manageable, smaller, units
• Understanding what the community requires from SAPS
• SAPS cannot meet everyone in the community, hence the need for champions who can speak on behalf of the community
• Sector Heads have the same powers as the Colonel, for their particular Sector
Captain Vermaak then addressed the community and introduced himself. He has been in the area for 23 years, 7 of which have been at Linden SAPS, and is passionate about Sector Policing. It is not a new concept and seems to have its origins in the USA c1986. In 2003 a National Instruction relating to Sector Policing was drafted but it was never approved. In 2009, it was approved as National Instruction (3 of 2009), and subsequently its execution and deployed commenced. It is a strategic intent to address crime, as part of the national objective to reduce crime by 50% in 5 years.
Implementing Sector Policing at Linden CPF
The first steps at Linden SAPS to deploying Sector Policing was to implement the necessary staffing structures, which is now complete, albeit with a number of vacancies (projected to be 27 based on current strategies and statistics). Furthermore, projects and programmes to address root causes have been implemented and are underway – these have been prioritised and will remain in force.
The benefits of Sector Policing, Captain Vermaak went on to say, was that the National Instruction gives legal substance to addressing and preventing crime, and, very importantly, budget has been allocated for this purpose. Furthermore, he suggested that large business should become involved in these initiatives (in Sector 1 we have MNet and Roche, as well as a number of other smaller enterprises).
It is important to note, Captain Vermaak stated, that Sector Policing is not politically motivated. The local councillor does not have jurisdiction over Sector Policing – a ward committee is already in place to address matters relating to politics.
Operation of the Sector
Each Sector will have a constitution relative to that Sector, and a team, from the community, will be appointed to mobilise in that Sector. Team members will participate in operational activities, the mobilisation of fellow community members, as well as be willing to participate. A key ingredient from the community is creativity in addressing and preventing crime. Captain Vermaak stated that many of the pre-existing tactics may no longer be effective or suitable, hence the community providing inputs.
The success of Sector Policing lies in addressing localized problems with tactics suitable to that community. For example, Capt Vermaak stated that the approach and tactics employed in Windsor would not be suitable in another suburb like Robindale. The role of Sector Policing is to work closely with the Sector community to define and deploy suitable tactics for addressing localized issues. Additionally, the Sector must collaborate with other government agencies and role-players in addressing matters affecting the community. An example that was cited was blocking a liquor license from being approved in a certain neighbourhood. It is not SAPS’ role to prevent the issue of liquor licenses.
Community Involvement
Before going onto the protocols and appointment of champions (for Sector 3), Captain Vermaak reiterated the need for people to become champions and involved. Sector 3, like our area, is victim to apathy of the residents, not wishing to get involved. I have personally witnessed the apathy in our area, having on numerous occasions dropped pamphlets in post boxes in my streets with approximately 2 responses out of 60 pamphlets! The moment there is an incident, however, there is a massive outcry – its too late then!
Reporting Protocol
The following reporting protocol for crime incidents has been estabaloished as part of Sector Policing:
1st. Press your panic button to alert your security company – and then . . .
2nd. Call the your security service provider’s call centre – and then . . .
3rd. Call the Patrol Vehicle assigned to your Sector (numbers listed below) – and then . . .
4th. Call 10111
It was strongly requested that you do not contact the station directly – Linden SAPS does not have a fully fledged call centre. Some additional items to note is that 10111 receives 3000 calls per hour. If you contact them from your landline (as opposed to from your mobile), your address immediately becomes available to them.
What To Report
In terms of the reporting protocol noted above, it is important to determine what should be reported. Any offences or crimes related to the by-laws, such as damage to public trees (for example the municipal trees on your pavement or trees in parks) noise, litter, traffic, etc. are not to be reported to the Sector Patrol vehicle. These offences fall under the jurisdiction of the JMPD, and should be reported to them accordingly.
However, anything relating to a crime such a burglary, theft, robbery, murder, serious assault, rape, hi-jacking, etc. must be reported to the Sector Patrol vehicle, even if it is after the event.
It is also important to note that attempted crimes must be reported to the Sector Patrol Vehicle. For example, wall hoppings MUST be reported, even if you feel that no crime was perpetrated. Capt. Vermaak explained that if all wall hoppings are reported upon, then patterns can be established, and from these patterns crimes can be prevented. He went on to explain that if crimes, attempted crimes and suspicious behaviour are not reported, it could have a direct impact on the Linden SAPS’ budget and resourcing, as it would then appear that the neighbourhood has a ‘clean bill of health’ and doesn’t require more resources. In closing Capt. Vermaak stated that you should rather report the incident to the Sector Patrol Vehicle and let SAPS decide if it is significant enough to report on.
Sector Patrol Vehicles’ Contact Numbers
Please be advised that these numbers are not active as yet, but take note of them in the interim:
• Sector 1 – 071 675 6044
• Sector 2 – 071 675 6047
• Sector 3 – 071 675 6049
• Sector 4 – 071 675 6050
Champions for Sector 1
The champions for Sector 1 have not been fully finalised, owing to the recent changes in the demarcations. A meeting is being proposed for 14.10.2010 at 9:30, at Linden SAPS for determining the Sector 1 Champions. I realise this is during office hours, however I urge you to try attend. I have put my name forward as a champion already.
On Monday evening (04.10.2010) I attended the Linden Community Policing Forum Sector 3 inception meeting. It was well attended by representatives from Sector 3. Despite the fact that we (RERA) now fall into Sector 1, this meeting was still very valuable. The change of Robindale East from Sector 3 to Sector 1 took place at a prior meeting, to which we were not invited. The rational for this is included in a prior posting (see here http://robindale-east.blogspot.com/2010/10/robindale-included-in-sector-1-of.html).
At the commencement of the meeting we were introduced to a number of role-players, as follows:
• Colonel Mohale (Station Commander)
• Captain Vermaak (Head of Crime Prevention and Sector Policing)
• Jadd Harding (Chairman of the Linden Community Policing Forum / LCPF)
• George Bezuidenhout (Head of Reservists)
• Shaun Scott (Vice-Chairman of the Linden Community Policing Forum / LCPF)
• WO Bokkie Kildare (Head of Sector 3)
• WO Walter Spencer (Head of Sector 1)
• Martin Opperman (who arranged these meetings – thank you)
Please note: apologies for spelling or inaccuracies, as I didn’t get all the details.
Colonel Mohale was introduced by Martin Opperman. The Colonel did a brief introduction, stating that Sector Policing:
• Is about sub-dividing the precinct into more manageable, smaller, units
• Understanding what the community requires from SAPS
• SAPS cannot meet everyone in the community, hence the need for champions who can speak on behalf of the community
• Sector Heads have the same powers as the Colonel, for their particular Sector
Captain Vermaak then addressed the community and introduced himself. He has been in the area for 23 years, 7 of which have been at Linden SAPS, and is passionate about Sector Policing. It is not a new concept and seems to have its origins in the USA c1986. In 2003 a National Instruction relating to Sector Policing was drafted but it was never approved. In 2009, it was approved as National Instruction (3 of 2009), and subsequently its execution and deployed commenced. It is a strategic intent to address crime, as part of the national objective to reduce crime by 50% in 5 years.
Implementing Sector Policing at Linden CPF
The first steps at Linden SAPS to deploying Sector Policing was to implement the necessary staffing structures, which is now complete, albeit with a number of vacancies (projected to be 27 based on current strategies and statistics). Furthermore, projects and programmes to address root causes have been implemented and are underway – these have been prioritised and will remain in force.
The benefits of Sector Policing, Captain Vermaak went on to say, was that the National Instruction gives legal substance to addressing and preventing crime, and, very importantly, budget has been allocated for this purpose. Furthermore, he suggested that large business should become involved in these initiatives (in Sector 1 we have MNet and Roche, as well as a number of other smaller enterprises).
It is important to note, Captain Vermaak stated, that Sector Policing is not politically motivated. The local councillor does not have jurisdiction over Sector Policing – a ward committee is already in place to address matters relating to politics.
Operation of the Sector
Each Sector will have a constitution relative to that Sector, and a team, from the community, will be appointed to mobilise in that Sector. Team members will participate in operational activities, the mobilisation of fellow community members, as well as be willing to participate. A key ingredient from the community is creativity in addressing and preventing crime. Captain Vermaak stated that many of the pre-existing tactics may no longer be effective or suitable, hence the community providing inputs.
The success of Sector Policing lies in addressing localized problems with tactics suitable to that community. For example, Capt Vermaak stated that the approach and tactics employed in Windsor would not be suitable in another suburb like Robindale. The role of Sector Policing is to work closely with the Sector community to define and deploy suitable tactics for addressing localized issues. Additionally, the Sector must collaborate with other government agencies and role-players in addressing matters affecting the community. An example that was cited was blocking a liquor license from being approved in a certain neighbourhood. It is not SAPS’ role to prevent the issue of liquor licenses.
Community Involvement
Before going onto the protocols and appointment of champions (for Sector 3), Captain Vermaak reiterated the need for people to become champions and involved. Sector 3, like our area, is victim to apathy of the residents, not wishing to get involved. I have personally witnessed the apathy in our area, having on numerous occasions dropped pamphlets in post boxes in my streets with approximately 2 responses out of 60 pamphlets! The moment there is an incident, however, there is a massive outcry – its too late then!
Reporting Protocol
The following reporting protocol for crime incidents has been estabaloished as part of Sector Policing:
1st. Press your panic button to alert your security company – and then . . .
2nd. Call the your security service provider’s call centre – and then . . .
3rd. Call the Patrol Vehicle assigned to your Sector (numbers listed below) – and then . . .
4th. Call 10111
It was strongly requested that you do not contact the station directly – Linden SAPS does not have a fully fledged call centre. Some additional items to note is that 10111 receives 3000 calls per hour. If you contact them from your landline (as opposed to from your mobile), your address immediately becomes available to them.
What To Report
In terms of the reporting protocol noted above, it is important to determine what should be reported. Any offences or crimes related to the by-laws, such as damage to public trees (for example the municipal trees on your pavement or trees in parks) noise, litter, traffic, etc. are not to be reported to the Sector Patrol vehicle. These offences fall under the jurisdiction of the JMPD, and should be reported to them accordingly.
However, anything relating to a crime such a burglary, theft, robbery, murder, serious assault, rape, hi-jacking, etc. must be reported to the Sector Patrol vehicle, even if it is after the event.
It is also important to note that attempted crimes must be reported to the Sector Patrol Vehicle. For example, wall hoppings MUST be reported, even if you feel that no crime was perpetrated. Capt. Vermaak explained that if all wall hoppings are reported upon, then patterns can be established, and from these patterns crimes can be prevented. He went on to explain that if crimes, attempted crimes and suspicious behaviour are not reported, it could have a direct impact on the Linden SAPS’ budget and resourcing, as it would then appear that the neighbourhood has a ‘clean bill of health’ and doesn’t require more resources. In closing Capt. Vermaak stated that you should rather report the incident to the Sector Patrol Vehicle and let SAPS decide if it is significant enough to report on.
Sector Patrol Vehicles’ Contact Numbers
Please be advised that these numbers are not active as yet, but take note of them in the interim:
• Sector 1 – 071 675 6044
• Sector 2 – 071 675 6047
• Sector 3 – 071 675 6049
• Sector 4 – 071 675 6050
Champions for Sector 1
The champions for Sector 1 have not been fully finalised, owing to the recent changes in the demarcations. A meeting is being proposed for 14.10.2010 at 9:30, at Linden SAPS for determining the Sector 1 Champions. I realise this is during office hours, however I urge you to try attend. I have put my name forward as a champion already.
07 October, 2010
Robindale included in Sector 1 of Sector Policing Initiative
Hi all,
Initially Robindale was included in Sector 3, however we've now been included in Sector 1. Below is the rationalle via an email from Shaun dated 29.09.2010. The image outlines Sector 1.
Regards,
Norwin
Dear Norwin, Gerald, Phillip, Sanet, Christo and other resident coordinators in Robindale East of Malibongwe
You may have picked up earlier emails about the implementation of Sectors in the Linden Precinct. This started early in September and will continue in the next few months.
The area North of Boundary between Malibongwe and Bram Fischer has had a mixed past in terms of sectors. It has been part of Sectors 1, 2 or 3 depending on who one spoke to and which map was referred to.
Captain Vermaak today clarified this with the Sector Commanders and the CPF and has proposed that the area should form part of Sector 1. Making this part of Sector 1 does not impact or split any resident associations (as far as we know) and can possibly help to forge greater cooperation in this area. The Robins Ratepayers and Resident Association (RRRA) has always considered the eastern boundary to be Malibongwe Drive and have never had interaction with the Robins on the “other side” of Malibongwe. Whilst the RRRA is one of the oldest associations in the area, they are quite big and at the moment have been challenged in accommodating the many streets in their area. It would not make sense to try incorporate this area into the RRRA area (within Sector 3 which extends to the N1 highway).
Sector 1 includes the large suburb of Blairgowrie but also includes the suburbs of Robin Acres. President Ridge and Ferndale between Bram Fischer, Malibongwe and Republic. It makes sense to keep these areas within the same block and given the relative size of each Sector, it makes sense to make this entire block (Boundary, Bram Fischer, Republic and Malibongwe) part of Sector 1.
Sector 1 had an initial planning meeting early in September. At the time we understood that you would form part of either Sector 2 or 3. We apologise for this but believe the change is in the interest of your communities. There is a Sector 3 meeting planned for Monday 4 October where the sector concept will again be explained and the different sector team members will be introduced and you are all invited to please attend (Monday 6.30pm at the Fontainebleau Community Church on Rabie). We will advise you on the next Sector 1 meeting but please attend the Sector 3 meeting next week in the interim
Attached is an initial map put together to show the borders in this area.
The Sector commander for Sector 1 is Warrant Officer Spencer (XXX XXX XXX excluded for purposes of privacy NL). He is one of the more experienced, passionate and dedicated officers in the Linden Precinct. With your permission, I will give your contact details to WO Spencer so he can contact you and get to know your area and yourselves.
Please do not hesitate to contact myself or any of the CPF Executives should you have any questions.
Best regards
Shaun Scott for the Linden CPF
Initially Robindale was included in Sector 3, however we've now been included in Sector 1. Below is the rationalle via an email from Shaun dated 29.09.2010. The image outlines Sector 1.
Regards,
Norwin
Dear Norwin, Gerald, Phillip, Sanet, Christo and other resident coordinators in Robindale East of Malibongwe
You may have picked up earlier emails about the implementation of Sectors in the Linden Precinct. This started early in September and will continue in the next few months.
The area North of Boundary between Malibongwe and Bram Fischer has had a mixed past in terms of sectors. It has been part of Sectors 1, 2 or 3 depending on who one spoke to and which map was referred to.
Captain Vermaak today clarified this with the Sector Commanders and the CPF and has proposed that the area should form part of Sector 1. Making this part of Sector 1 does not impact or split any resident associations (as far as we know) and can possibly help to forge greater cooperation in this area. The Robins Ratepayers and Resident Association (RRRA) has always considered the eastern boundary to be Malibongwe Drive and have never had interaction with the Robins on the “other side” of Malibongwe. Whilst the RRRA is one of the oldest associations in the area, they are quite big and at the moment have been challenged in accommodating the many streets in their area. It would not make sense to try incorporate this area into the RRRA area (within Sector 3 which extends to the N1 highway).
Sector 1 includes the large suburb of Blairgowrie but also includes the suburbs of Robin Acres. President Ridge and Ferndale between Bram Fischer, Malibongwe and Republic. It makes sense to keep these areas within the same block and given the relative size of each Sector, it makes sense to make this entire block (Boundary, Bram Fischer, Republic and Malibongwe) part of Sector 1.
Sector 1 had an initial planning meeting early in September. At the time we understood that you would form part of either Sector 2 or 3. We apologise for this but believe the change is in the interest of your communities. There is a Sector 3 meeting planned for Monday 4 October where the sector concept will again be explained and the different sector team members will be introduced and you are all invited to please attend (Monday 6.30pm at the Fontainebleau Community Church on Rabie). We will advise you on the next Sector 1 meeting but please attend the Sector 3 meeting next week in the interim
Attached is an initial map put together to show the borders in this area.
The Sector commander for Sector 1 is Warrant Officer Spencer (XXX XXX XXX excluded for purposes of privacy NL). He is one of the more experienced, passionate and dedicated officers in the Linden Precinct. With your permission, I will give your contact details to WO Spencer so he can contact you and get to know your area and yourselves.
Please do not hesitate to contact myself or any of the CPF Executives should you have any questions.
Best regards
Shaun Scott for the Linden CPF
Planned Power Outage - 10.10.2010
Please see attached noticed w.r.t. a planned outage on 10.10.2010 from 05:00 to 19:00.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)