MBOMBELA – Ehlanzeni Community Policing Forum (CPF) members marched to the Government Complex on Thursday to submit a memorandum of demands regarding the Crime Prevention Wardens recruitment process.
According to Mataffin CPF Chairperson, Walter Phiri, who highlighted flaws in the CPW recruitment process, despite applying, none of the 15 Mataffin CPF members were recruited. In contrast, certain chairpersons and secretaries from other areas were selected.
The memorandum submitted to the Department of Community Safety,Security and Liaison states that CPF members are seeking recognition for their critical role in fighting crime, abuse against women and children, and serving their communities. They risked their lives in performing their duties, with three members recently stabbed by criminals while on duty, resulting in one fatality.
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The memorandum also questions the rigorous vetting process cited by MEC, Jackie Macie, suggesting it may be a factor in the flawed recruitment process. Furthermore, it raises concerns about the non-delivery of vehicles intended to support CPF members in their work.
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Department Spokesperson, Moeti Mmusi said the application criteria was between 18 and 50 years of age, with no criminal record. At this stage, the department is already finalising appointments and for the CPWs to start training in January 2025. “However, we will engage with the Ehlanzeni CPFs to respond to the issues raised in the memorandum handed to the department a few days ago.
About 150 000 CPWs applications were received from across the province.
