Another set of eyes and ears are on patrol, with the launch of the much anticipated Takanini Community Patrol this week.
The patrol launches after an 18-month joint effort between Community Patrols of New Zealand (CPNZ) and NZ Police, with support from the Supreme Sikh Society. The new service includes two new community patrol vehicles to help prevent crime and reduce harm in the local area.
Counties Manukau District Commander, Superintendent Shanan Gray, says community patrols are invaluable to Police, keeping an eye on neighbourhoods and providing valuable intelligence to Police who cannot be everywhere at once.
“Police are aware of community concerns around some of the behaviour in the Takanini area, and have been working hard to make ensure our locals continue to feel safe.
“Our patrols have also focused on engaging with our community, but the issues aren’t something that Police alone can solve.
“We are continuing to work with both the community and our partner agencies to address any concerns and these volunteers are our eyes and ears and are part of the Police family.”
CPNZ chairman Chris Lawton says community patrols are made up of volunteers working with Police in their own community to help deliver a safer environment for everyone to live in.
“We would really like to thank Police staff at Counties Manukau South for their great work in helping to get this up and running, they are so invested in their community and it shows.
“Also of course a special thanks to Mahindra for the two vehicles, having access to these to continue to keep Takanini a safe place to live and work is vital.”
Mr Lawton says the official launch was also an opportunity to highlight the Pathways to Police program, which combines community patrol with active Police work.
“This dual role allows you to undergo comprehensive training while actively participating in Police operations, fostering a hands-on experience in law enforcement.”
For more information, go to www.cpnz.org.nz
ENDS.
Holly McKay/NZ Police
