Despite being home to two national key points – the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station and a major internet tower – the Melkbosstrand Police Station is operating with only one patrol vehicle per shift, raising serious concerns about the safety of residents and visitors alike.
This alarming reality came to light after MP Nicholas Gotsell and ward councillor Paul Swart met earlier last week with representatives from Melkbosstrand police, the community policing forum (CPF), neighbourhood watch (NHW) and community safety and support (CSS).
The concerns are amplified by the recent tragedy that shook the community just two weeks ago when a retired teacher was brutally murdered in her Melkbosstrand home, a case reported on by TygerBurger last week. Community leaders and residents have since expressed outrage, questioning how such a violent crime could occur in a suburb that houses two national key points. “The murder of a well-loved teacher is a painful reminder that crime does not respect boundaries,” a resident said.
“When there’s only one vehicle patrolling such a large and important area, it’s not just inadequate; it’s dangerous.
“Our police members are passionate, committed, and doing their utmost under difficult circumstances. But they cannot fight crime effectively when they are so severely under-resourced. Staff numbers have dropped over the years, even as the population grows, and vehicles taken off the road have not been replaced.”
Only one vehicle
Currently, the single patrol vehicle is frequently required to leave the precinct to transport suspects. On occasion this includes driving a drunk driver as far afield as Athlone, leaving the entire Melkbosstrand community without any patrol coverage.
Gotsell described the situation as “shocking” and has written to the Provincial Police Commissioner demanding answers. He questioned whether police senior management has been neglecting Melkbosstrand because the community has managed to maintain low contact crime statistics thanks to strong CPF, NHW, and CSS initiatives.
“We must not accept this,” Gotsell stressed. “This week an elderly lady tragically passed away under circumstances still under investigation. Her death is a stark reminder that no community is immune to violent crime. SAPS management must act proactively, not reactively, when it’s too late.”
Gotsell also praised the dedication of CPF, CSS, neighbourhood-watch members, street-watch groups and active residents who play a crucial role in keeping the community safe. He urged residents to attend CPF meetings and raise their voices in support of local policing. “Let us be part of the change we want to see.”
Collaboration
Swart expressed confidence that the soon-to-be-deployed ward-safety officers will further strengthen collaboration between the police and community-based safety structures. “These officers will act as force multipliers, enhancing the already strong partnership between law enforcement and residents.”
Community members now call for urgent attention from police management to ensure that resources, personnel and vehicles are appropriately allocated to Melkbosstrand, which has grown rapidly in recent years. Many residents echo Gotsell’s sentiments that proactive policing and visible law-enforcement presence are vital for deterring crime.
In Melkbosstrand the pressure on the local police station remains high. Residents hope sustained community engagement, combined with better resourcing from police, will prevent future tragedies and secure a safer environment for all.
