Langa residents turn to safety patrol, not police

LANGA residents have lauded their community neighbourhood watch for apprehending criminals in the area.

Residents are reportedly no longer turning to their local police station for help as they feel that the Langa Safety Patrol does a better job.

Langa Safety Patrol chairperson Bandile Gcuwa said they were pleased that they were able to assist the residents in curbing crime.

“Ever since we started operating in 2019 we have been able to curb crime here in Langa. When it comes to housebreaking and robberies, we have been able to assist the community in retrieving their items that were stolen. The community is now able to go to the shops without having the fear of getting robbed. We are happy to see that they feel safe,” he said.

“The Western Cape police commissioner said he does not like the way we operate. As the patrol, we are offended with what he said as we have been working tirelessly in ensuring that we apprehend criminals.

“Most cases that should be attended to by the police are solved by us. Residents no longer report cases at the police station because they feel they don’t get assistance from the SAPS, and we cannot turn away residents that need our help.”

Community activist Anele Gqasana said: “The safety patrol does amazing work and we want the police to work together with them and not feel intimidated; the police station must function properly.

“The community has lost all hope in the Langa police . If you’ve been robbed, within two days or a few hours you will receive your belongings. We no longer have gangsters here in Langa as they have been reformed by the patrol.”

Resident Evelyn Makhelwa, 74, said: “I was once scammed by a man who lives in the area, who promised to do some renovations at my house but he didn't. After I paid him in advance he disappeared.

“I contacted the Langa Safety Patrol and within two days they found him, and I got my money back. I’m happy that they’ve helped me and I would report a matter to them any time of the day as they’re always available to assist and they act swiftly.”