New police leader in Delft gives community hope

Police and community members gathered in an open field in Rosendal Delft on Monday evening to express their outrage and discuss solutions to the sharp increase in shootings and other criminal acts that have affected the community in recent months.

The newly appointed sector manager Warrant Officer Michael Daniels, addressed the crowd. “ I have been appointed the new sector manager for this area and I want to warn every gangster, ‘tikkop’, and burglar, I will find you and I will catch you.”

Daniels said that shootings in the area have devastated the community. “Too many kids have been shot over the past couple of weeks. It has rocked this community and I am saying enough is enough.” The crowd erupted in applause.

“Every [drug] merchant we will lock you up. We will work together as the police, the neighbourhood watch and the community. We are taking these streets back!” said Daniels

A community member who has been particulary affected by the recent shootings and burglaries, Janet Floors said, ”I am truly sick of these thugs ruling our streets. It’s time that the community rises up.”

Another resident Kayla Diedericks said: “Last week a known housebreaker broke our front window and tried to get in in the middle of the day! They have no fear. Even our bins aren’t safe. We can’t even put them out for rubbish collection. You have to watch your bin the whole time.

As sector manager, Daniels is implementing the following rules for the area:
- A curfew will be put in place. Any person found on the streets after 11pm will be interrogated. - All spaza shops must be closed by 9pm at night. - Police will be on constant patrol. - A meeting discussing progress will be held every Tuesday evening.