The Somerset West Community Policing Forum (CPF) has elected a new executive committee after months of inactivity, with Strand set to follow suit next month as the Khayelitsha sub-district moves closer to full operational strength.

Marlon Solomons, chairperson of the sub-district’s CPF, welcomed the appointment of Ellen Esau as chairperson of the Somerset West CPF after a period of inactivity within the precinct following the resignation of previous chairperson Dane Thomas.

Thomas resigned in January, citing being overwhelmed by church, business and family responsibilities alongside extensive CPF commitments.

“I don’t think the new executive will experience the same problems as the last, given most of those chosen are self-employed,” Solomons related.

He highlighted that the precinct is in desperate need of sub-forums, given how large and varied the areas within it are.

Esau, a long-time community worker who has been serving as acting chairperson since Thomas’s resignation, said she knows the community’s concerns and believes she can contribute significantly in the role. She praised her predecessor for his investment in the community and spiritual support to the police and residents during his tenure.

Esau said the new executive committee’s priorities are to strengthen partnerships with all stakeholders, encourage more residents to become involved in neighbourhood watches and Community in Blue initiatives, and get young people on board in fighting crime.

“When we have a strong community presence with police, we will be able to bring change in our communities,” Esau pointed out.

She identified drug abuse, crime and unemployment as the most concerning issues facing the community.

George Kruger, the CPF’s newly elected public relations officer (PRO), said the new committee plans to strengthen partnerships between local police, communities and neighbourhood watch structures through better communication and cooperation.

The structure is focusing on increasing community participation and creating platforms where safety concerns can be shared and constructively addressed.

“Through collaboration and a shared commitment to community safety, we can build a stronger, safer and more united Somerset West,” Kruger said.

With the Somerset West CPF back on its feet, attention has turned to Strand, which will elect new members for vacant executive positions on Tuesday 8 September.

The CPF structure has been without a permanent leader following the expulsion of the previous chairperson after he was charged with sexual assault last year (“Beskuldigde uit GPF geskors,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 13 August 2025).

Justin Kumlehn, deputy chairperson of the City of Cape Town’s CPF district, has confirmed the former chairperson has officially been removed from his position following an internal investigation.

“Because the disciplinary hearing is linked to a criminal case that is currently under way, I am unable to comment any further,” Kumlehn said.

The Strand CPF has been led by acting chairperson Lillian Albertyn for the past year.

A new permanent chairperson will be elected and, depending on the outcome, a deputy chairperson. Secretary and project coordinator positions will also be filled after the incumbents stepped down.

Brent Louis, Strand CPF PRO, has recused himself from his role after entering the local government elections race in November.

The election for the vacant positions on the Strand CPF executive committee will be held at Rusthof Primary School in Tenth Street on Tuesday 8 September. Only organisations registered on Strand police’s CPF database will be eligible to vote.

Nearly at full strength, Solomons is looking forward to what is next for the sub-district’s CPF. “We are the partners of the police and our goal is to bring crime down,” he reiterated.

He explained that their next focus will be on the taxi violence that has been crippling the sub-district’s precincts, as well as the continued threat of illegal firearms. Solomons has called on the community to assist and support the CPF.