Problem houses and vagrancy were just some of the topics high on the agenda at a police public meeting held in Parow held last week.
The public were invited to the meeting to discuss their concerns relating to crime and social issues earlier.
Bronwin Daniels, chair of the Parow Community Policing Forum (CPF), says though several of the residents highlighted issues pertaining to the City of Cape Town’s bylaws, the main issues discussed were problem houses in Parow and vagrancy.
Daniels thanked all those in the community who attended the meeting.
“During the meeting, residents identified a number of problem houses.
“The police confirmed that these matters will be placed under further inquiry and monitoring in line with the correct legal processes.
“Concerns were also raised about the presence of vagrants and the criminal activity believed to be linked to informal structures such as shacks in the area. The community requested that representatives from the Department of Correctional Services and the Department of Justice be invited to future meetings.
This will allow residents to better understand how the justice system works specifically, why some suspects are arrested and then released shortly afterwards; an issue that places additional pressure on the police, who often deal with the same repeat offenders,” says Daniels.
Working together
Several of those vagrants are also parolees, she mentions.
Daniels says that the meeting highlighted the importance of working with the CPF, Ward councillors, the police, and all relevant stakeholders to create lasting solutions for a safer neighbourhood.A follow-up meeting will be held at a later stage.
