Feedback from JOCUM meeting held 19th July 2022

​Dear fellow Rooielsers, 
> 
> RERA received an invitation from Theresa Els to send representation to
> the regular Kleinmond Police Joint Operations Committee (JOCOM) and
> will attend regularly. 
> 
> JOCOM meet fortnightly. The meeting is chaired by LT Colonel A May, Station Commander: SAPS Kleinmond; includes SAPS, DAFF, OM, ratepayers associations, neighbourhood watch, and security agencies. The agenda includes reflection on crime statistics for the area, security improvement initiatives and general security considerations. 
> 
> The investigative state and sensitive nature of some items prohibit
> the reporting thereof. In addition, the frequency or repetitiveness of
> some content will not necessarily be shared or discussed. Therefore
> future updates to Rooielsers will depend on the feedback received and
> may be included in other RERA feedback. 
> 
> Feedback from the meeting 
> 
> LT Colonel May extended SAPS’ appreciation to all agencies
> especially the neighbourhood watches for their tireless efforts and
> contributions to crime prevention. #CrimeMustFall 
> 
> The total crime reported from 1 to 13 July 2022 is down by 44% and
> property-related crime is down by 55% compared to the previous period.
> Month to date (19 July) a total of 67 cases were reported in the area,
> an average of only 3.52 per day.  Almost all personal contact crimes
> occurred in specific streets in Proteadorp and Overhills and mostly
> occur over the weekend between midday Friday to Sunday night. 
> 
> The recently published news article related to crime in the area was
> raised, especially the incorrect perception it created of specific
> neighbourhoods in the area. It was reiterated that it is not the
> purview of this committee however a member of the committee confirmed
> that enquiries are underway to determine the source and timeframe of
> those statistics as well as an appropriate response w.r.t. its impact
> on the community and tourism. 
> 
> We were requested to impress the community to practice personal
> vigilance and basic security. Most reported ‘entry’ (not burglary)
> crimes were due to doors and windows being left open or unlocked with
> unobstructed access to items. This also applies to vehicles. Alarm
> systems aren’t armed or in working condition. Security and safety
> are a joint responsibility. All crimes must be reported to SAPS as
> they provide intelligence. 
> 
> We were reminded that arrests for abalone poaching can only be made if
> the alleged perpetrator is caught in possession of abalone.
> Nevertheless, the reporting of poaching activities has led to good
> intelligence and arrests – please continue to report suspected
> activities. 
> 
> For a significant period, no crime has been recorded by offenders 18
> years and younger. This is an achievement for the area and an
> indication that the interventions and support structures are working. 
> 
> In closing, comments in reflection on the proposed CCTV policy were
> shared. The policy although not by-law or law, could have a
> significant impact on safety and security operations.  Communities
> are encouraged to submit comments. Some notes on this are included on the Ward Feedback Blog
> 
> Warm regards
> RERA Exco