Minutes of Meetings

Minutes of the CPF S2 Coordination Meeting

Date: April 9, 2026 | Time: 14h00 | Location: Bathurst, Eastern Cape

Objective: Presenting the Coordinated Village Safety Eco-System.

I. Attendance & Opening

Attendees: 

• Capt. Mzileni (Station Commander)

• W.O. Abrahams 

• Station CPF Sector 1 Chairperson: Ntombenthsa

• CPO: Sergeant Gobizimbe

• Representatives from Private Security (Multi Security and Sky Security): Chris, Llewellen

• Block Watch Administration Representatives: Georg, Nola, Stan, Danie, Tamsyn. Michelle.

• Chairperson of the Bathurst Residents and Ratepayers Association (BRRA): Stan

• Head Ambassador and Ambassador Reps: Vuyo, Tamsyn, Danie

• CPFS2 Executive Committee members: Tamsyn, Danie

Excuses Received:

• Department of Correctional Services

• Richard (Block Watch Coordinator)

• Marcia (Vice-Chairperson)

• Louwrens (Multi Security)
  
  

• Vision & Philosophy: The Chairperson introduced the "Coordinated Village Safety Eco-System," moving from reactive responses to a structured, integrated approach.
  
  

• Core Principle: "Compassion without structure creates chaos. Structure without compassion creates resentment".
  
  

• Role Clarity: It was reinforced that the CPF and its Sub-Forums—including the CPF S2, the Bathurst Residents Association, Security Company representatives, Block Watch Coordinators, and Bathurst Ambassadors—act as a 'force multiplier' for SAPS, focusing on identifying and referring issues rather than replacing official law enforcement.

II. Operational Updates

• Ambassador Program: Transitioning "car guards" in the CBD into "Bathurst Ambassadors" to eliminate intimidation and criminal links.

A proposal was made to include a SAPS official in the Ambassadors' closed communication group to improve rapid response and oversight.

• Block Watch Coordination: The 10 blocks in Sector 2 are represented by coordinators who facilitate visibility reports and a "feedback loop" so residents see the results of their reporting.
  
  

• Digital Moderation:
  
  

  • WhatsApp is utilised for efficient information flow; however, the community was reminded that posting on social media—including community WhatsApp groups—does not replace the legal requirement of opening a formal SAPS case.
    
    

  • Furthermore, the CPF S2 Executive Committee and Block Watch Administrators emphasised that any form of verbal and / or cyber-abuse directed toward SAPS, the CPF, or partner organisations is strictly unacceptable. Such behaviour will not be entertained nor tolerated within our official communication channels.

III. Geographic Hotspots & Infrastructure

• Discussion focused on security measures for high-traffic and tourist areas.
  
  

• The Toposcope: It was noted that visitors and tourists remain particularly vulnerable at this historic site. SAPS has advised that extra caution should be applied when visiting. Let’s all ensure that visitors are informed of simple, effective precautions they can take should they choose to visit the site.
  
  

• Bylaw Enforcement & Beautification: The "Broken Windows Theory" was highlighted, linking overgrown vegetation and abandoned plots to security risks.

  • A request for bush clearing at the Toposcope was noted, though the CPF's role is strictly to refer these to the appropriate authorities.

IV. SAPS & Legal Integration

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Emphasis was placed on the correct handling of J88 forms to ensure medical evidence for assault cases is preserved and not dismissed in court.
  
  

• Correctional Services Link: Formalising communication regarding the release of parolees into the community to ensure proper monitoring and rehabilitation program implementation. 

V. Financial & Strategic Sustainability

• Funding: Currently, the CPF S2 is utilising the BRRA bank account. However, contributions are limited to a very small number of residents, which is not sustainable for long-term operations.
  
  

• Elections: Upcoming Station CPF elections were noted as high priority, with a request for better advanced communication and education for the community.

VI. Action Items & Next Steps

1. Workshops: Schedule community education sessions on First Aid, Snake Handling, and Cyber Security. Volunteers from the community are requested to come forward to either organise or facilitate these.
   
   

2. Reporting Chain: Finalise the "reporting chain" to ensure incident data reaches SAPS and Private Security simultaneously.
   
   

3. Public Meetings: Establish a bi-monthly public meeting schedule to maintain community engagement.

CPF Sector 2  Bathurst

Meeting minutes (26 March | Village Green | 12:00–13:15):

Present:
Danie Boneschans (Chair)
Marcia Moon (Vice-Chair)
Stan Esterhuisen (Block Watch admin and community Rep)

Excused:
Tamsyn Nuttley (Secretary)
Vuyo Sontsonga (Ambassadors)

1. Legal Framework for CPF

Emphasis on aligning CPF actions with legislation (Police Act, mandates, white papers). Law should guide actions to avoid chaos and strengthen authority.

Ongoing review of legal documents. A to present summaries regularly. Simplify into readable formats for community.

2. Community Communication

Need to improve communication between SAPS and community. CPF should facilitate engagement rather than act as middleman.

Organise community-facing meetings with SAPS. Resend summaries to broader community. Consider printed copies for elderly residents.

3. Use of Legal Language

Importance of using specific legal wording (e.g. “improving services”, “transparency”, “accountability”) to hold SAPS accountable.

Use legal terminology when engaging SAPS formally. Build structured, evidence-based engagements.

4. Publishing Photos of Suspects

Legal risks discussed regarding sharing images of suspects, especially if in custody. Potential for cases to be dismissed.

Clarify with the prosecutor what is legally permissible. Establish clear CPF guidelines for sharing images.

5. “Person of Interest” Approach

Sharing images used to warn community, not accuse. Debate on balancing awareness vs legal risk.

Formalise wording such as “person of interest.” Await legal clarity before wider use.

6. Case Tracking & Reporting Forms

Multiple forms exist (incident logging, case tracking, complaints). Low public engagement noted.

A to use existing data form for follow-ups. Improve visibility and usability of forms.

7. Digital vs Physical Reporting

Concern that digital-only systems exclude less tech-savvy residents.

Block Watch admins to assist residents with submissions. No move to paper system. Training to be provided.

8. Role of Block Watch Admins

Admins should support reporting, assist residents, and act as link between community and CPF.

Reinforce expectations with admins. Offer training and support. Encourage proactive engagement.

9. Underreporting of Crime

SAPS unaware of many incidents due to lack of reporting. This affects resource allocation.

Encourage all incidents to be reported. Educate community on importance of reporting.

10. SAPS Service Concerns

Poor response experiences noted (e.g. phone handling, reluctance to open cases).

Gather formal complaints via system. Present structured feedback to Station Commander.

11. Structured Complaint Process

Complaints must follow legal/structured processes with timelines and escalation.

Develop formal complaint tracking with timelines and escalation procedures.

12. Community Responsibility

Residents must take ownership (reporting, prevention, awareness).

Ongoing messaging to encourage responsibility and participation.

13. Ambassador System

Informal rapid-response system via WhatsApp groups working effectively for immediate concerns.

Expand and strengthen ambassador network. Encourage wider participation.

14. Amanta Apartments Case

Concerns about lack of SAPS follow-up.

Raise directly with Station Commander.

15. CPF Structure & Elections

Sector 2 operates under Station CPF (Sector 1). Upcoming elections important for leadership.

Encourage community attendance and voting. Ensure representation. Date and Time TBC.

16. Terminology: “Car Guards”

Suggestion to stop using term; refer to “loiterers” or “opportunists.”

Standardise terminology in communication.

17. Loitering & CBD Safety

Ongoing issue with loiterers and opportunistic crime. Mixed success with informal interventions.

Continue non-violent engagement strategies. Use Ambassadors and SAPS visibility.

18. Security Options

Discussion on formal security presence vs cost constraints.

Explore feasibility but no immediate action due to cost.

19. Visibility & Presence

Visible policing (e.g. SAPS patrols with lights) deters crime temporarily.

Encourage regular patrol visibility. Use SAPS strategically.

20. Community Support & Capacity

Limited number of active volunteers; difficulty scaling initiatives.

Focus efforts on willing participants. Identify tech-capable volunteers to assist others.

Date: 5 February 2026 

Time: 16:00 

Location: The Old Barracks

1. Welcome and Opening

- Chairperson: Danie

2. Attendance

Members Present:

• Danie Boneschans (DB) Chair

• Tamsyn Nuttley (TN) Secretary

• Marcia Moon (MM) Vise

3. Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

Minutes from Previous Meeting:

  - Date of previous meeting: 15 January 2026

  - Approval: Approved by MM and TN

  - Matters arising from previous minutes:

4. Reports

1.⁠ ⁠Court Appearances & Case Tracking

• Case Updates: Tamsyn reported on cases involving "Curiosity Shop" and "Pig & Whistle". The Curiosity Shop trial is set for final appearances on March 4th.

• Suspect Management: Discussion regarding suspects “Nobebe”, “Ntshuku”, “Kuku” and “Jeppe”. The latter is out on parole; the other was released from shorter term detainment services recently.

• Case Tracking Forms: The team noted a lack of community engagement with the Google tracking forms. Residents are reporting some crimes to the police but failing to log them with the CPF, leading to a gap in data. Residents claim that there is a major problem, but the data does not align due to non-compliance with CPF reporting forms from the community.

2.⁠ ⁠Security Concerns & Surveillance

Sikilela Incident: Tamsyn detailed a December incident where a suspect named Sikilela allegedly attempted to stab a woman ("Andy") in the CBD area. Despite video footage being handed to detectives, the victim did not follow through with a restraining order.

Cable Theft: Reported cable theft near the showgrounds road, specifically occurring in late December and January.

A property in Trappes rd: Concerns were raised about the property becoming a hub for transients, which the committee fears is leading to increased criminal activities and domestic disputes because of poor management and lack of accountability. The committee is calling anyone who can assist us in finding a way forward. 

3.⁠ ⁠Community Visibility & Signage

Block Watch Signs: Tamsyn confirmed that "Block 7" signs are ready for installation. Waiting for block 7 residents to contribute financially in order for these signs to be signed off and installed. If Block 7 does not want these signs, the CPF S2 will place them elsewhere where needed.

Ambassador Program: Vuyo continues to act as an ambassador, though there is a need to "up-skill" him. The committee discussed the financial sustainability of his role, noting that only a few local businesses and a handful of residents are currently contributing to the donation he receives. The Ambassadors program will be put on hold until the end of February 2026 so we can re-assess the financial viability thereof. 

4.⁠ ⁠Strategic Next Steps

SAPS & CPF Relations: Meetings are to be scheduled - to ensure everyone is on the same page when it comes to the CPF’s legal mandate and jurisdiction. The goal is to support the police while ensuring they remain accountable.

Night Watch & Car Guards: Marcia made some positive suggestions - will investigate if implementation is possible and it will also depend on community funding. 

Community Meeting: Marcia proposed a large-scale community meeting to present crime stats and mandate participation in the Night Watch program. Again, the concern is that unless we have full attendance or fair representation, that meeting will not take place. 

10. Date and Time of Next Meeting

Next Meeting:

  - Date: TBC

  - Time:TBC

  - Location: TBC

11. Closing

Closing Remarks: The CPF is looking for an admin person who can help with basic admin, etc. Please reach out if you think you might be able to assist.

Adjournment: 17:30

Date: 15 January 2026 

Time: 9:45 AM

Location: Online

1. Welcome and Opening

- Chairperson: Danie

- Opening Remarks: Welcome and Happy New Year. 

- Apologies: Tamsyn, Warwick

2. Attendance

Members Present:

• Danie Boneschans (DB) Chair

• Marcia Moon (MM) Vise

3. Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

Minutes from Previous Meeting:

  - Date of previous meeting: 19 November 2025

  - Approval: Approved

  - Matters arising from previous minutes: Case Tracking Form, Audience reach, community responsibility.

4. Meeting Summary:

•⁠  ⁠CPF to increase reach of the Case Tracking Form so residents can submit information for follow-up.

•⁠  ⁠⁠Residents are reminded to navigate to the CPF website www.bathurstcpf.co.za and familiarise themselves with all the options to make their voices heard.

•⁠  ⁠Safety remains a community responsibility – active involvement in Bathurst is a key crime deterrent.

•⁠  ⁠Exec to engage Mieta Williams (CPF Regional Chair).

•⁠  ⁠Continued night patrols and visibility are essential to sustaining the decline in burglaries and break-ins.

•⁠  ⁠A public meeting is planned for end February. At least 5 representatives per block/area are required. Block admins, business owners and stakeholders are encouraged to commit.

•⁠  ⁠Next Exec Meeting: Early February with the Station Commander (TBC).

Date: 19 November 2025
Time: 15:00
Venue: Village Green

1. Present

• Danie Boneschans (DB)

• Tamsyn Nuttley (TN)

• Marcia Moon (MM)

2. Apologies

• Gobizimbe, Sivuyile

3. Matters Discussed

3.1 Criminal Case Collation Process

MM reported that we are currently compiling a user-friendly guide outlining the collation and due-process flow of criminal cases.

• The purpose is to clarify confusion around procedure and improve the CPF S2’s criminal case profiling database.

• A link will be shared once the document is complete.

MM further suggested that the CPF consider making wider use of protection orders as a tool to keep repeat offenders out of specific areas. This will also assist in comparing and tracking trends.

• Residents are encouraged to complete the post–case number received form or reach out directly to MM for assistance.

MM reiterated that while the CPF is supportive, it is not the CPF’s role to collect information from various sources. Victims or affected parties must contact us directly when follow-ups or details are required.

3.2 Community Night Walks

MM noted that informal group night walks are taking place in certain areas.

• Residents are encouraged to consider participating or organising similar walks.
  
  

• A small group of people walking with torches serves as a peaceful but effective reminder to opportunistic criminals that the community is active and alert.

3.3 Bathurst Ambassadors Programme

TN provided feedback on the Bathurst Ambassadors programme currently active in the CBD.

• There are two active community members who report directly to the CPF regarding suspicious movements, concerning behaviour, or situations that could make the CBD vulnerable to crime.

• The initiative is performing well, and there is potential for expansion.

• Community members and CBD-based businesses are encouraged to contribute a small monthly amount to sustain and grow the programme.

• There is still much more the Ambassadors can (and wish to) do with additional support.

3.4 Administrative Matters

DB addressed several administrative points:

• Exec Committee: A proposal was made to invite Vuyo Sontsonga to join the CPF S2 Executive Committee due to his strong involvement in the community and his ability to act as a liaison with Sector 2.

  • All present were in agreement.

  • DB will follow up with Vuyo.

• Positive SAPS Feedback: DB shared that a recent burglary victim expressed appreciation for the professionalism of SAPS Bathurst. This message was relayed to the Station Commander and Warrant Officer Abrahams.

• Community Appreciation: DB expressed sincere gratitude to the community for each person's contribution, no matter how small.

  • He reminded residents that there is a role for everyone and encouraged continued participation.