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Bathurt cpf S2.mp4About the CPF S2
About the CPF S2
The Bathurst Sector 2 CPF is dedicated to fostering an Ecosystem of Safety across our village. We serve as the vital link between residents and law enforcement to proactively secure our CBD and residential areas. Through evidence-based reporting, high-visibility awareness, and our community-supported Ambassador Programme, we combine structured communication with neighbourly care to ensure Bathurst remains a safe place to live, work, and visit.
The Bathurst Sector 2 CPF is dedicated to fostering an Ecosystem of Safety across our village. We serve as the vital link between residents and law enforcement to proactively secure our CBD and residential areas. Through evidence-based reporting, high-visibility awareness, and our community-supported Ambassador Programme, we combine structured communication with neighbourly care to ensure Bathurst remains a safe place to live, work, and visit.
For Residents & Visitors:
For Residents & Visitors:
What is the MySAPS App?
What is the MySAPS App?
The MySAPS App is the official mobile application of the South African Police Service. While Community Wolf is fantastic for local, rapid communication, MySAPS is your direct, formal line to the National Crime Stop Centre for official reporting.
How it works: You download the app on your smartphone and use it to submit anonymous tip-offs about criminal activity. Each tip-off is assigned a reference number, allowing you to follow up on the progress later.
The "Find My Station" Feature: Using your phone’s GPS, the app can instantly show you the nearest police stations, their contact numbers, and a map to get there—perfect for visitors or when you are traveling away from the village.
People of Interest: The app allows you to view galleries of Missing Persons and Wanted Suspects, helping the community stay vigilant and informed.
Service Complaints: If you feel you have received poor service at a station, you can lodge a formal complaint directly through the app to ensure it is investigated at a higher level.
Works Without a Smartphone: If you don't have a smartphone or data, you can access the same tip-off services for free by dialing the USSD code: *134*10111#.
Quick Setup for Residents:
Quick Setup for Residents:
Download: Search for "My SAPS" on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Profile: You can choose to remain anonymous or fill out a profile to receive updates on your reports.
Use the USSD: Save *134*10111# in your phone contacts as "SAPS Tip-Off" for quick access without data.
What is Community Wolf?
What is Community Wolf?
Community Wolf is an AI-powered safety platform designed specifically for South African neighbourhoods. Unlike traditional apps that require a separate download, it works directly through WhatsApp, making it fast and easy for everyone to use.
How it works: You add the Community Wolf number as a contact and send a message (text, voice note, or photo) with a location "pin" to report suspicious activity or an incident.
The "Bigger Picture": The AI automatically structures your report and routes it to the relevant responders (like SAPS or our local security teams).
Data-Driven Safety: By logging incidents on Community Wolf, you help the CPF and SAPS build a "crime map" of Bathurst. This evidence-based data is what allows us to argue for more resources or specific patrols in high-risk zones.
No App Required: Because it runs on WhatsApp, it’s accessible to all residents and visitors without needing to manage another account or high data usage.
Quick Setup for Residents:
Quick Setup for Residents:
Add the Contact: Save the Community Wolf WhatsApp number to your phone.
Report: If you see something, "howl" by sending a message and your location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
FAQs
FAQs
Legal Procedures & Rights
Legal Procedures & Rights
Q: Can the police search my car without a warrant?
A: Generally, yes, if it is at a legally authorized roadblock or within 10 kilometers of a national border. Additionally, if an officer has reasonable grounds to believe a delay in obtaining a warrant would result in the loss of evidence or the escape of a suspect, they may conduct a search.
Q: Am I allowed to film or photograph police officers in public?
A: Yes. Members of the public have the right to film or photograph police in the performance of their duties in public spaces. However, you may not interfere with their work, and you cannot be forced to delete footage or hand over your device without a court order.
Q: What should I do if I have a complaint about a police officer?
A: You should report misconduct to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). They are the statutory body that functions independently from the Police Service to investigate serious offences, corruption, or deaths involving members.
Community & Service
Community & Service
Q: What is the CPF and do they have police powers?
A: The Community Police Forum (CPF) is a partnership between the Service and the community to improve transparency. CPF members are volunteers and do not have police powers (such as the power to arrest or search) unless they are also sworn-in Reservists. CPF Sector 2 is a division of the Station CPF Bathurst.
Q: How does the police handle Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases?
A: Every station is required to have a victim-friendly room. Officers must assist victims with sensitivity, provide information on how to obtain a protection order, and may not turn a victim away or insist they "settle" the matter privately.
Police Conduct & Regulations
Police Conduct & Regulations
Q: How much force is a police officer allowed to use?
A: The law is very specific: a member may only use the minimum force that is reasonable and proportional in the circumstances. Lethal force is only permitted if there is an immediate threat of serious bodily harm or death to the officer or the public.
Q: Are police officers allowed to participate in politics?
A: Members may join a political party and vote. However, they are prohibited from publicly displaying support, holding office in a party, or wearing political insignia. They may not attend political meetings while in uniform or on duty.
Q: Can the police go on strike if they are unhappy with their conditions?
A: No. Because the Police Service is classified as an essential service, the Act strictly prohibits any member from striking. Members who participate in a strike can be summarily discharged.
Note on Digital Privacy: In line with the POPI Act, the police must handle your personal data (IDs, addresses, and statements) with strict confidentiality. If you believe your data has been breached or misused by a member, this can be reported as a formal grievance.
Digital & Contact Resources
Digital & Contact Resources
Q: Is there a mobile app I can use to report crime?
A: Yes! The MySAPS app (available on the Apple App Store and Google Play) allows you to send anonymous tip-offs, find nearby stations, and track firearm applications. If you don't have a smartphone, you can access similar services by dialing *134*10111#.
Q: How do I contact the Bathurst SAPS directly?
A: You can reach the Bathurst Police Station at 046 625 0636. For emergencies, always dial 10111 first to ensure the call is logged and dispatched correctly.
Q: Where is the nearest IPID office if I need to escalate a complaint?
A: The Eastern Cape provincial office is located in East London:
Address: Waverly Office Park, 3-33 Phillip Frame Road, Chiselhurst.
Phone: 043 707 7200
Email: Complaints.EasternCape@ipid.gov.za
Not sure where to report?
Not sure where to report?
You can also notify any Ambassador you see in and around the CBD.
You can also notify any Ambassador you see in and around the CBD.
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