Khayelitsha CPF chair Phindile George receives award for crime-fighting efforts

The Khayelitsha Community Policing Forum (CPF) and its chairperson, Phindile George, have been recognised for their unwavering commitment, consistency, and tireless efforts in the fight against crime in Site B.

This recognition came at the Western Cape Police Excellence Awards, held at the Century City Conference Centre on Saturday, January 17.

Mr George and his team have worked tirelessly to keep the community safe, fostering strong and healthy relationships with key stakeholders in Khayelitsha, including the South African Police Service, neighbourhood watches, schools, and local businesses.

After receiving the award, Mr George expressed his gratitude to the police and the community. He highlighted that what sets his team apart is the fact that all stakeholders are functional, active, and united in the fight against crime.

“Let me take this opportunity to thank all leaders for your warm congratulatory messages to us as grassroots volunteers in the space of community safety, who work day in and day out, offering our services to contribute to the peace and stability of our communities,” he said.

Mr George added that the messages of support from leaders and stakeholders following the recognition had encouraged ordinary volunteers who patrol dangerous and violent streets.

“These volunteers are protected only by a reflector jacket and the hope of making our communities safer. When you speak in our support, it means we are not alone - you have our backs as the communities of Cape Town,” he said.

While townships are often associated with persistent crime, Mr George stated that the CPF draws inspiration from the words of former president Nelson Mandela (Tata Madiba), who understood community safety as a foundation of democracy. Madiba once said that crime and violence can be defeated only if society unites against them.

Mr George called on communities to establish neighbourhood watches and actively participate in community safety initiatives.

“Together we can build a better society. CPFs and neighbourhood watches form a vital link between the community and the police,” he said.

He added that his team’s strength lies in its continuous awareness campaigns on issues such as Arrive Alive, gender-based violence, and substance abuse, not only during commemorative days but throughout the year.

“We work for the community 24/7. We are grateful to have won this award, and we promise to continue with the work we have been doing. Most importantly, we are happy that our efforts have been recognised,” he said.

The Khayelitsha CPF district has also praised the Site B CPF for its outstanding work. District coordinator Funeka Soldaat described the forum’s efforts as exceptional.

“Their activities have been out of this world. They have shown an unbelievable fighting spirit. I have seen their campaigns and imbizos. May they continue to fight for our people,” she said.

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