Community involvement and visible patrolling are key to success in the fight against crime, according to Glenwood Neighbourhood Watch chairman, James Ellis.
The watch held its annual general meeting on Tuesday November 5 at Goodwood Sports’ Club.
He said the meeting followed the renewal of the watch’s accreditation by the Department of Community Safety.
“This has to be done every two years, and a new committee must be elected to drive this organisation in order to fight crime and extend on our achievements for the past three years.”
Glenwood is a small enclave surrounded by Jakes Gerwel Drive, Townsend Street, Frans Conradie Drive and Monte Vista railway line.
Mr Ellis said Glenwood used to be part of the greater Goodwood area neighbourhood watch but broke away to give more attention to a smaller area.
Mr Ellis said over the suburb’s population worked during the day, so they patrolled at night while 15% are elderly or work from home and patrol during the day.
The area had been plagued by crime, including crowbar-gang break-ins, before the watch had been formed three years ago, he said.
“Crime is down, thanks to the patrollers who have walked the extra mile. But it’s also thanks to the community as they are eyes and ears for the area.”
Mr Ellis said the watch was raising money to install security cameras in the area.
Watch members did not just fight crime but also helped the community whenever the need arose, he said.
“Recently the husband of one of the elderly residents had a stroke, Her sliding door came off its runners and the patrollers fixed it for her.”
To become a patroller or ask for assistance call the watch’s 24-hour hotline at 060 437 5937.   Â