Ocean View Police Station is under the helm of a new commander.
Lt Col Rewayne Muller, who moved from Strandfontein Police Station, started his new role in September.
Ocean View Community Policing Forum (CPF) chair Mansoer Ismail wished the new commander well in his new role.
“I wish him all the best because Ocean View and Kommetjie are not easy areas to work in, especially when you come from another dynamic.
“We have extortion, gang violence and robberies but I believe he is a community person who loves working with neighbourhood watches and NPOs and other organisations, so we wish him well.”
CPF deputy chair Terence Daniels said it was time for police to restore the trust of residents.
“We welcome the new station commander; he has to fill the role that has been left behind and it is important for him to engage more with the community. The community has lost faith in the police, so it is time to restore faith in the community.”
He further explained that corrupt officers previously stationed at Ocean View played a role in residents losing trust in the police.
“There were a few corrupt police officers that we worked out of the system. If there, for example, were police operations in the past, they would let the dealers know that we were coming.”
On Thursday 12 October, under the leadership of the new commander, police held a successful integrated operation in Masiphumelele and Ocean View.
According to Daniels, the operation involved stop-and-search procedures which led to multiple drug-related arrests.
“This initiative emphasises the crucial role of public involvement in the battle against illegal shebeens (informal liquor outlets) and drug dens.”
He added that the aim of police and law enforcement is to curb liquor-related issues and disruptive activities especially now before the festive season begins.
“These operations are set to persist throughout the approaching festive season. Community support is vital in reporting and preventing such activities.
“The CPF extends its gratitude to Lt Col Muller and his dedicated team for their relentless efforts in making these areas safer for all.”
