Tensions lead to resignation of Durbanville CPF executive committee

The executive committee of the Durbanville Community Police Forum (CPF) has resigned, citing difficulties in working with the local station commander.

The seven-member committee, which consisted of a chairperson, vice-chairperson, secretary, deputy secretary, projects coordinator, treasurer, and public relations officer, served its last day in office on Tuesday, September 30.

In a statement, the committee said a list of concerns were handed over to the station commander, Colonel Gonum Munsamy, in September last year for a discussion. 

"This request was immediately denied, and what followed forced the CPF to lodge complaints against the station commander,” the statement read.

The list of complaints in the statement alleged that Colonel Munsamy refused to meet with Fisantekraal residents to discuss their concerns, and that she had referred to them as "people who think they can have special privileges," that they are "self-entitled," "spoilt," and that she will "halt actions to address any query or complaints regarding Durbanville police." 

The committee said a complaint was lodged with the provincial office of the South African Police Service (SAPS), but did not receive any feedback.

Colonel Munsamy, who assumed the office in May last year, requested that all questions be sent to the provincial office of police for a response.

Provincial police spokesperson, Captain FC van Wyk, in turn, said the enquiry falls within the mandate of the provincial CPF board.

The spokesperson of the Western Cape Provincial CPF Board, Rafique Foflonker, said the provincial board has initiated an inquiry to verify the circumstances surrounding the matter.

“The Board views the effective functioning of CPFs and their partnerships with SAPS and the community as vital to safety and crime prevention. Constructive solutions should be found and community representation, at the station level, must be restored as soon as possible,” she said.