Neighbourhood Watch Needs You

Neighbourhood Watch looking for members

Crime is on the increase in St Francis Bay and the town is now under the threat of regular HOME INVASIONS with threats, or actual violence being committed. NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH NEEDS YOU as patrol members, and or sponsors.

Neighbourhood Watch has, in other towns, assisted in bringing down crime so Barry Wild has taken the initiative and established one in St Francis Bay.

Neighbourhood Watch will have a hold a “RECRUITATHON” at the Saturday Morning Market this weekend. Look out for the large purpose built display. Supporters (in blue T-shirts with Neighbourhood Watch insignia) will be on hand to answer questions, to encourage people to join as new members, as well as to seek donations from those who for one reason or another cannot patrol.

The reason for all this is because St Francis Bay is now under the threat of regular HOME INVASIONS with threats or actual violence being committed.

Barry says: “There have been FIVE such cases in the last SIX WEEKS. Just imagine being awakened from your sleep to be surrounded by three or four thugs wearing black balaclavas, brandishing knives and threatening you should you fail to conform to their demands.

“In addition to that we have the never-ending morning reports of the latest crimes against property and persons. If not checked, how long before we are in the territory of Rapes and Murders which is sadly the case in other areas of South Africa.”

Some neighbouring towns and villages have well-resourced and equipped Neighbourhood Watches. One close to us is Paradise Beach, which has significantly limited crime in their village. Kenton-on-Sea is another town with an effective Neighbourhood Watch.

“St Francis Bay has a small, but dedicated Neighourhood Watch group, but is seriously lacking in man/woman power to help with the gaps in patrolling shifts. We also seek help with funding. It costs upwards of R1 000 to equip one of our members with all the equipment they need: search lights/roof strobe lights/personal protection equipment etc.”

To join NW is easy. There is NO fee but just a commitment to do one two-hour patrol each week.” Should fuel be a problem contact Barry.

The few stalwart volunteers who do Neighbourhood Watch duties need your support in sharing the load of patrolling. Come to the Morning Market or contact Barry Wild on 082 367 9947 or on thewilds@telkomsa.net

Article by Yvonne Bosman