What is a CPF:
The CPF is a legal community structure established in terms of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Act and is mandated to facilitate community–police relations within a specific police station precinct and serves as the mouthpiece of the community with the police and vice versa on policing matters and other relevant safety issues.

Who:
The CPF Executive Committee is elected by the community to serve a voluntary five-year term. A Community Policing Forum is a platform where community members, organizations, other relevant stakeholders, (provincial government, local government, traditional authority and parastatals), and the police meet to discuss local crime prevention initiatives.  The local CPF Sub-Forums and Neighbourhood Watches also function under the CPF.

Why:
“Community policing has been proven around the world to have a big impact on safety and security. It extends the reach of the police by involving the community. This is of particular importance in the combatting of social crime, prevalent in many South African communities.

It facilitates crime prevention with joint problem solving, targeting hot spots, hardening targets and identifying people at risk. It reduces the collateral damage caused by “the war against crime”. – Civilian Secretariat for Police Service.

For more information on how to join the Amanzimtoti Society Crime Sub-forum, A CPF Sub-Forum, or Neighbourhood Watch email pro@toticpf.org.za