Farmwatch to partner police
2006-12-07
WELLINGTON police have new - and very motivated - partners in their battle against crime.
The addition to the ranks was welcomed by Provincial Police Commissioner, Mzwandile Petros, at a function on Lelienfontein farm in the Bovlei last week.
“We have to look after the safety and security of those who live on farms. The people who have been trained as farm guards are now partners against crime.
“They are taking control of their lives and we appreciate their commitment.”
The project, initiated by Wellington police inspector Pierre Hugo, included 17 volunteers from Lelienfontein, Twyfeling, Goede Hoop, Welgegund, Oudepont, Groenvlei and Behne Farms.
They underwent training for six weeks, also in the handling of conflict, human rights, securing a crime scene and radio communication.
Last week the proud men and women received a handshake from the commissioner as well as jackets, telephones, hand radios, torches and batons.
The farm watch will be joining the police and reservists on patrols on farms and identifying houses where alcohol and drugs are smuggled.
They will also be manning vehicle checkpoints.
Their base will be a caravan parked at the Wamakersvallei Primary School.
There are 310 farms in the Wellington area, Insp Hugo said.
“We want to make sure that they, and the people who live on them, are all safe.
“We need volunteers for training. There is no financial gain and the farm guards will be assisting the police in their free time.”
The next intake will be at the end of January, when the recruiting will be concentrated on the Bergrivier farms.
Insp Hugo can be contacted at 082-4988-338.
More
News
|
