There will be “extra boots on the ground” in the Steenberg policing precinct this festive season as Community In Blue (CIB) patrollers are set to be rolled out in the coming weeks.
Steenberg Police Station acting commander Lt Col Delmore Manuel says with crime on the rise and a large area to cover, extra hands are always welcome.
“The more people we can have out there who can be visible, the better. That is why we are so grateful for the (CIB) patrollers who have come on board to help us in that regard.”
While similar to a neighbourhood watch the CIB has key differences as members are empowered by working under the command of the police.
“The Community In Blue is there to enhance our numbers.
“They are members from the community who go into the same communities they come from to be visible in the area and to be the eyes and ears of the police.
“Extra boots on the ground we will appreciate because serving this community is very challenging, we know crime is on the rise, especially this time of the year.”
The Steenberg policing precinct covers four sectors including Heathfield, Retreat, Steenberg and Lavender Hill with serious crime noticeable in two areas.
“We are covering quite a large area and our crime is very scattered.
“Our serious crime is mostly populated in our Lavender Hill area and Cafda so the plan with the CIB is to basically go out in numbers to those areas as a deterrent.”
Meanwhile, Sgt Lynn Petersen, who is assisting with training the CIB patrollers, says 27 people have been screened and signed up.
“They are finishing Module one and two training, which consists of self-defence, admin duties, how to take statements, open a docket and interview clients.
“The biggest difference between the neighbourhood watch and CIB is that police are more involved.
“Neighbourhood watches fall within their boundary but with the CIB they can be posted in the whole Steenberg precinct and work under my command.”
The patrollers have their uniforms and will be receiving the tools they need to carry out their duties.
“A uniform has been created for the Community In Blue members which will consist of a T-shirt and caps. We also held fundraising so that any tools we need we can provide for them,” said Petersen.
Community members who would like to join are taken through the same screening process as neighbourhood watch members.
“We go through the same process as reservists and neighbourhood watch members to screen them to check for criminal records.
“If anyone has a criminal record they may not join.”
Petersen added that the patrollers will also be receiving firearm training.
“They are well disciplined and training is still in process. They will receive firearm training such as how to handle a firearm, the safety aspect or what to do when coming across a crime scene where there is a firearm.
“What we have taught them, they are ready for action.”
For more information on how to join the Community In Blue, contact Petersen at the station.
