Neighbourhood watches (NHW), accredited with the Western Cape’s Community Safety Department, may patrol under the new set of adjusted alert level 3 regulations.
Community Safety MEC, Albert Fritz calls on the
chairpersons of accredited NHWs to enquire with the Department’s NHW unit to
issue new permits to operate during curfew hours between 9pm and 6am.
MEC Fritz said, “After consultation with SAPS
legal Services, SAPS in the Western Cape confirmed that under the Adjusted
Alert Level 3 Regulations that NHWs can function, provided all relevant
protocols are adhered to. To do so, NHWs must be issued with permits and on
their person at all times whilst performing duties.”
Fritz said that his department has since
received the permit template which will be used to issue permits to accredited
NHWs.
“The previously issued permits are however no
longer valid as the Regulation, as promulgated in Government Gazette no 11217
dated 29 December, has changed. The new Regulation in terms of Movement of
persons is Regulation 33(1) (b) read with Regulation 82(1) (b).”
“NHWs can continue to utilize the permit as
provided by the Department of Community Safety to patrol. It is essential that
NHWs continue to patrol during the curfew hours as we know that these are the
times in which crimes such as robberies and burglaries take place.” added Fritz.
Should you have any further questions on
whether your NHW structure can operate or on obtaining permits for members of
your accredited NHW structure, you may contact the Department of Community
Safety’s NHW unit by emailing Neighbourhood.Watch@westerncape.gov.za.
Done By: Mitchum George
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