To reduce crime and other social problems in Langa, Sub Council 15 introduced Langa Ambassadors to monitor and restore calm in the area.
The ambassadors were introduced to the community at the Monwabisi Recreation Centre on Friday 3 February.
The 22 ambassadors will be responsible for preventing crime and reporting any wrong or suspicious activity to the community.
Speaking on behalf of Sub Council 15, Ward 51 Councillor Lwazi Phakade described the ambassadors as an extension of the local neighbourhood watch.
He said they are working closely with the City of Cape Town and the police. “Their task is beyond crime. If they see a blocked drain or street lights that are not functioning they report to the City. Or if they see suspicious people or cars they will inform the police,” said Phakade.
Langa Community Policing Forum chair Alfred Magwaca described the introduction of the ambassadors as a breath of fresh air. He said they woud be deployed at various hot spots in the community. “We have five registered neighbourhood watch groups in Langa. The City conducted random selection from the neighbourhood watch groups and came up with names who formed the ambassadors”.
Magwaca stated that they are working on a contract basis. “They are hired on a two monthly contract, with a possibility to extend until the end of this financial year, which is June.
Langa Police Station spokesperson Capt Nondumiso Paul described the establishment of the ambassadors as a great initiative to fight crime. She urged other community stakeholders to come on board. “We will identify hot spots where they will be stationed. Our plan is to squeeze the space for the criminals”.