Role of Community Policing Forums (CPFs) in effective crime prevention in the Merafong Local Municipality Area : a critical analysis

Abstract

This research is concerned with the role of a Community Policing Forum (CPF) in fighting crime in communities. The National Crime and Prevention Strategy (NCPS) indicates that, in order to fight crime effectively, communities and the SAPS should work collaboratively and in partnership with each other. Apart from the aim of fighting crime, as stated in the NCPS, the South African Police Act 68 of 1995 mandates each police station to establish a CPF. The current research uses both qualitative and quantitative research methods to establish whether CPFs attached to police stations operate in accordance with the South African Police Act 68 of 1995. The literature review provides the necessary background to the socio-economic dynamics of South African policing. It does that by outlining the development of the current policing approach and by exploring specifically the notion of community policing; and also by contextualising the statutory and regulatory guidelines for the functioning of a CPF. The empirical research revealed that communities in the selected area of study (the Merafong Local Municipality) are operating according to the South African Police Act 68 of 1995 towards the aim of fighting crime effectively. On the basis of both the literature review and the empirical findings, recommendations that could improve the prevention of crime by means of a CPF are made.