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Dear Residents,

Safety remains one of the biggest concerns in our community. One of the challenges we face is that many residents are quick to voice their frustrations on social media, but when the time comes to join hands and turn words into action, only a few show up.

On Wednesday, the 21st, the Community Policing Forum (CPF) will host a community meeting. While some residents believe these meetings are pointless and that nothing ever comes of them, those of us who attend consistently have seen that when we collectively raise our concerns, action can follow.

A perfect example is the concern raised at the last CPF public meeting regarding alleged drug dealing at our local park. Residents pointed out that police vehicles regularly passed through the area, yet the problem persisted. Since the matter was brought to the attention of SAPS, we have not observed the same drug-dealing activity taking place there.

Imagine how much more we could achieve if we came together to raise and address other concerns affecting our community.

On 20 September, a petition was submitted to the police station and received by Colonel Mokwena. We appreciate the CPF secretary for taking note of the petition and following up on behalf of the community. We hope to receive feedback on the matter at the upcoming meeting.

Another issue of serious concern is the alleged sale and distribution of drugs within our community, reportedly under the guise of informal trading. Our children are particularly vulnerable to the dangers associated with drug exposure and addiction. If we fail to act collectively, we risk losing our children to substance abuse, which can contribute to further social problems and crime.

Now is the time to stand up, speak out and take action. We cannot afford to remain silent while issues that threaten the safety and wellbeing of our families continue to affect our neighbourhoods.

If you have any safety-related or crime-related concerns that need to be addressed, please make every effort to attend this meeting and raise them through the appropriate channels.

If attending in person is difficult, consider mobilising residents within your street, block, complex or estate to prepare a written submission or petition. You can then appoint a representative to attend the meeting and present your concerns on your behalf. What matters most is that our voices are heard and that our concerns are formally documented.

We would also like to acknowledge Brigadier Tsotsotso for his professional and helpful approach whenever matters have been brought to his attention. Even when complaints concern members serving within his own police station, residents have found that their concerns are taken seriously. This willingness to engage is important in building trust and strengthening the relationship between SAPS and the community.

A safer Midrand is possible, but it requires all of us to play our part. We may have our differences, but the safety of our families and the future of our children should unite us.

Let us put our differences aside, work together and hold one another accountable as we strive for a safer community.

This is what being stronger together looks like. Let us show up, speak up and work together for a safer Midrand.

Your community needs you.

Useful contacts

• Douglasdale SAPS: 011 699 1333
• Midrand SAPS: 011 347 1600
• SAPS Emergency: 10111
• Crime Stop: 08600 10111
• Ask for your sector manager or CPF representative when you call

Sector boundaries and manager names can change. Confirm your sector with Douglasdale SAPS, Midrand SAPS or the relevant CPF for the most accurate information.

• Report suspicious activity promptly
• Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles
• Use security systems and neighbourhood watches where available
• Share verified information only on community platforms
• Do not confront suspects — call SAPS