According to SAPS statement: On Thursday 02 October 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) Chatty in the Eastern Cape, in partnership with the Department of Community Safety, hosted a successful #Imbizo, aimed at strengthening relationships with the community and addressing pressing safety concerns.
The event brought together residents, community leaders, #CPF members, and various stakeholders.
The imbizo served as a platform for meaningful dialogue between SAPS, Department of Community Safety and external stake holders such as the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Justice, where voices of the community were heard and their concerns acknowledged.
Mr Mangcangaza from Department of Community Safety, emphasised that their role is to ensure that SAPS carries out its mandate effectively.
He highlighted the importance of community members working hand in hand with the police, through the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and residents were encouraged to be active participants by attending meetings and Imbizos regularly to voice their concerns.
Mr Mangcangaza further stressed that if people are not satisfied with service delivery, they should file their complaints with the Chatty Police Station Commander, and if still unresolved, escalate the matter directly to the offices of Community Safety.
In support of the initiative, Ms Olivia Groener from the Department of Justice also engaged the community, explaining key issues such as harassment, the process of applying for protection orders and matters relating to maintenance, ensuring that citizens are aware of their rights and the avenues available for witness protection.
Adding to the discussions, Ms Noyise Luvalo from the Department of Home Affairs addressed the challenge of late birth certificate applications and encouraged parents to ensure that their children apply for identity documents as soon as they turn 16.
During the engagement, community members raised concerns about the lack of police vehicles conducting patrols in their areas, and taverns operating till the early hours of the morning.
They also highlighted a worrying increase in gunshots fired particularly in Phola Park, Booysens Park and Chatty Five, leaving residents fearful for their safety.
In responding to the concerns, the SAPS Chatty Station Commander, Lt Col Kanise, encouraged the community to report criminal activities.
He assured residents that their complaints do not fall on deaf ears, and that SAPS Chatty is committed to improving visibility and response time.
In closing, NMB District Commissioner Major General Ncata, assured the community that there will be increased #PoliceVisibility in the identified hotspots, particularly in Phola Park, Chatty five and other affected areas.
He further highlighted the challenge posed by the lack of rehabilitation centres to adequately address substance abuse, which often fuels crime.
The concerns raised, the solutions suggested and the commitments made, were a clear reminder that safety and security is a shared responsibility.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
