Friday night 25 July marked the beginning of a renewed commitment to community safety in Goodwood as the neighbourhood watches joined forces with key stakeholders for a high-impact, high-visibility operation targeting known crime hotspots.
Spearheaded by Glenwood Neighbourhood Watch and supported by the police, metro police, traffic services, law enforcement, immigration, and three armed response companies (GAP, BYERS, and ADT), the operation also saw active participation from Ward 26 and 27 Councillors and the Mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith.
“This initiative spotlighted our community’s most pressing issues, bringing them to the attention of the authorities so they can be tackled head-on,” said Tracy Alberts, Deputy Chair of Glenwood Neighbourhood Watch. “By highlighting these areas, we’re working together to drive impactful solutions and create real change.”
Checkpoints
From 18:00 to 23:00, patrols swept across the Greater Goodwood area, including multiple checkpoints along Voortrekker Road, notably at:
- The RCS Building (Voortrekker & Jakes Gerwel)
- Voortrekker Road & Vasco Boulevard
- Voortrekker Road & Halt Road
A foot patrol was also conducted along Voortrekker Road, along with a visible checkpoint (VCP) in front of Goodwood Courts.
Neighbourhood Watches that took part in the operation included:
- Glenwood NHW
- Goodwood NHW
- Tygerdal NHW
- Monte Vista/Plattekloof Glen NHW
The team conducted roadblocks, issued numerous fines for driving and vehicle-related offenses, and made arrests for drunk driving. A premises was also raided where several undocumented individuals were detained.
“This operation marked the beginning of our collaborative efforts to build a safer Goodwood,” said Alberts. “We’re committed to ongoing partnerships and proactive initiatives that truly make a difference in our community.”
Patrollers
Alberts extended special thanks to Cllrs Cecile Janse van Rensburg, Franchesca Walker, and Col. Marius Roux, Goodwood’s Vispol Commander, for their leadership and coordination. “A massive shoutout to all patrollers and every stakeholder who braved the cold to be part of this. Your dedication is deeply appreciated.”
With the success of Friday night’s efforts, plans are already underway for more operations in the coming months. “This is just the beginning,” Alberts affirmed. “We’ll keep targeting Goodwood’s hotspots to ensure safety remains a top priority for all residents.”
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