UNITED FOR SAFETY: RUSTENBURG MASS PATROL
Rustenburg – In a significant display of unity and determination, AfriForum Buurtwag organised a mass patrol event on Friday evening, 19 April 2024, drawing participants from various security and community watch groups across the city, led by AfriForum Buurtwag leader and vice chairperson Lissinda Kritzinger.
The event showcased the collaborative spirit of the Rustenburg Crime Combatting Forum (RCCF), Community Policing Forum (CPF), Outdoor Arena Security, ADT Fidelity, Oasis Security, and Rustenburg Commando Corps.
RCCF and the security companies gathered at 18:30 at the open field on the corner of Bult and Kruger streets. By 18:50, the group moved in a convoy towards the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk Rustenburg-Suid on Kock street, where a pastor opened the gathering with a prayer to bless the security and crime combatting teams.
Morné Engelbrecht, general manager of Outdoor Arena Security, emphasised the importance of community cooperation, stating, “It’s important to take hands with the community, whether you are a security company or a neighbourhood watch.”
Ansie Pretorius, RCCF administrator and holder of the emergency phone, welcomed the attendees with heartfelt gratitude: “We’re here united by a shared purpose — to ensure the safety of our community.”
The sentiment of collaboration was echoed by Hendrick Panana, ADT Fidelity’s acting community operations manager for Rustenburg and Brits, who expressed enthusiasm about the joint effort: “We are pleased to be here because we are helping each other to fight crime.”
The patrol was deemed a success with a significant turnout. Kobus Ferreira, chairperson of the RCCF, remarked on the event’s success and the absence of serious incidents: “It was a great turnout. A lot of people came from different security companies and community watch groups. There were no major incidents during the mass patrol.”
This mass patrol is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Rustenburg community as it bands together to ensure the safety and security of its streets.
These dedicated groups, who consistently collaborate with the police, work tirelessly to maintain our safety.
The Rustenburg we knew as children has transformed significantly; it now faces challenges of increasing darkness and danger, with crime rates that continue to escalate. This stark reality underscores the vital role these courageous individuals play in our community. Their commitment and unity in facing these adversities are truly commendable and make them invaluable to our city.
Main Photo: From left: Rustenburg Crime Combatting Forum (RCCF) under-chairperson Dawid Fourie, RCCF administrator Ansie Pretorius, and RCCF chairperson Kobus Ferreira.
