The countless patrols, overtime, hard work, dedication, and commitment of the Edgemead Neighbourhood Watch (ENW) paid off this past weekend when the organisation walked away with not one, but two awards at the City of Cape Town’s annual Neighbourhood Watch Awards.
ENW walked away with the Situational Crime Prevention Award, while a member, Debra Pietersen, received the Courage in Action Award. This award was a tie between her and Pinelands Neighbourhood Watch member Pierre Fourie.
Grateful
“It is an honour to be given this award, and on behalf of the ENW executive committee and members I would like to thank the City for recognising the good work being done by the volunteers of the neighbourhood watches.
“This award is significant as it affects six suburbs, five neighbourhood watches and three police stations. However, this would not have been possible without the property owner being prepared to join forces with ENW, listen to the risk assessment issues and to take a stand against criminal activity.
“I want to sincerely thank Eskom’s transmission technical supervisor and security manager for the massive part they played in making this project possible. This award is for them too,” says ENW chair, Steve Maritz.
Maritz says it is vitally important that their partners be recognised for their role.
“The camera monitoring and response project that goes hand in hand with securing the Plattekloof Natural Heritage Site, has grown from a single camera pilot project sponsored by Precinct Response, our armed response partner who understood the risks, and wanted to assist us to resolve the crime problem,” he says.
Praises
JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, congratulated the members and neighbourhood watches for their work.
“The volunteers who are part of neighbourhood watches are an integral part of keeping our communities safer and play an important role in keeping criminals away. The awards are a token of our appreciation for the work they do and a salute to their bravery and dedication,” Smith says.
Smith adds: “While we have given some awards, all the members of these versatile organisations are winners for doing their part and contributing to public safety. Their efforts do not go unnoticed, and we commend them all for their passion and dedication.”
