What is the CPF?

The Community Police Forum (CPF) is a legal structure created under the South African Police Service (SAPS) Act. It plays a key role in fostering collaboration between the police and the community within a specific police station precinct. The CPF acts as the voice of the community, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed by the police. Members of the CPF are elected through a formal process, receiving a mandate from the community to carry out its duties and legal functions.

The Role of SAPS Act in Community Safety

The SAPS Act outlines the role of the police in community safety, which includes:

• Creating and maintaining strong partnerships with the community.
• Encouraging open and continuous communication with the community.
• Fostering cooperation with the community on policing efforts.
• Ensuring the police are transparent and accountable to the community.
• Improving service delivery from the police at all levels.
• Collaborating with the community to identify and address crime-related issues.

Legal Framework

The SAPS Act (68 of 1995) established CPFs as the only official forums where communities can raise their policing concerns and engage directly with the police. The CPF framework allows the community to hold the police accountable and contribute to the development of local policing strategies.

• The CPF brings together various community stakeholders, including organizations (CBOs, NGOs, businesses, faith-based organizations, youth groups, women’s organizations, and school governing bodies) as well as government representatives, traditional authorities, and the police. This collective group works together to address crime prevention in the area.
• The CPF holds the police accountable for their actions, ensuring their efforts align with community needs.
• It monitors the effectiveness and efficiency of the police in serving the community.
• The CPF helps set local policing priorities, contributing to decision-making on policing strategies.
• It also evaluates several key aspects of police service, including:
• Resource allocation and distribution.
• Handling of complaints and charges.
• Patrolling residential and business areas.
• Record-keeping and report writing.
• Providing recommendations for improvements in police service delivery.

Legal Foundation of CPFs

The establishment of CPFs is outlined in the South African Constitution (Section 221(2)) and the SAPS Act (Section 19(1) of Act 68 of 1995).

• CPFs, in collaboration with businesses and the police, are tasked with establishing a strong partnership with the community, promoting communication, ensuring the police meet community needs, improving transparency, and fostering joint problem-solving efforts to address crime and safety concerns.

Sector Chairs and Sector Map

• Sector 1 Chair & EXCO Chair: Aris Ruyter
• Sector 2 Chair: Michael Oosthuizen
• Sector 3 Chair: Martie van der Westhuizen
• Sector 4 Chair: Braam Steenkamp

Communication

Effective communication is the backbone of any successful community safety initiative, especially when it comes to responding to emergencies and coordinating efforts between the police, CPF members, and community stakeholders. While UHF radios are an essential tool for immediate, direct communication, there are times when radios may be out of reach or unavailable. In these instances, platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram have proven just as effective for staying connected. These apps allow for seamless communication, real-time updates, and the ability to share critical information even when other channels are not accessible.

The CPF uses a combination of UHF and Halo technologies to ensure constant communication across all members. UHF radios provide reliable, immediate contact during operations, while Halo technology offers further reach and connectivity. WhatsApp and Telegram groups complement these technologies by providing a flexible and accessible means of communication for all members, no matter where they are or what device they are using. These platforms also allow for easy sharing of images, videos, and documents, helping members stay informed and prepared for any situation.

Join Your Sector Group

Click on the tiles below to join your sector's communication group and stay up to date with the latest information, updates, and coordination efforts.

Become a Member

Need Help?

In an emergency, contact the numbers below or download the Namola app for quick assistance.

• SAPS Emergency: 10111
• Ambulance & Fire: 107
• Cellphone Emergency: 112
• Garsfontein SAPS: 012 472 0144
• CPF EXCO Chair: 083 652 6774

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Safety and Security Tips

Incorporating safety tips into your daily routine can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime. Here are some guidelines to help you stay safe:

General Safety Tips:

• Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions such as using your phone while walking.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation immediately.
• Avoid Displaying Valuables: Keep expensive items like jewelry, electronics, and large sums of money out of public view.
• Plan Your Routes: Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially when walking at night.

At Home:

• Enhance Security: Install security gates on doors and burglar bars on windows to deter intruders.
• Be Cautious with Strangers: Do not open your door to unfamiliar individuals without verifying their identity.
• Neighborhood Watch: Engage with local community safety forums or neighborhood watch programs to stay informed about local crime trends.

On the Road:

• Keep Doors Locked: Always lock your car doors and keep windows rolled up, especially in traffic.
• Avoid Hitchhikers: Do not pick up strangers, and be cautious when approached by individuals at stoplights or in parking areas.
• Park Safely: Use well-lit, secure parking areas and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.

Online Safety:

• Protect Personal Information: Be cautious about the amount of personal information you share on social media platforms.
• Secure Accounts: Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
• Beware of Scams: Be skeptical of unsolicited messages or calls requesting personal information or money.

Emergency Preparedness:

• Memorize Emergency Numbers: Know the local emergency contact numbers and have them easily accessible.
• Have a Safety Plan: Discuss and practice safety plans with family members, including safe places to go in case of an emergency.

By integrating these safety measures into your daily life, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime. Remember, personal safety often depends on awareness and proactive behavior.

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