- Albert Fritz says accredited NHWs need to obtain an adjusted Level 4 permit.
- This will enable such groups to continue patrols during the current lockdown.
- Fritz urged patrollers to protect themselves while performing their functions.
Neighbourhood watches will remain on the streets under Level 4 lockdown, but Western Cape community safety MEC Albert Fritz urged patrolling members to take every precaution to protect themselves against Covid-19.
"This includes taking practical steps, such as ensuring patrol vehicles do not transport more than the prescribed number of passengers, ensuring that patrollers wear masks correctly, sanitising regularly, and maintaining a safe social distance while out on patrol," Fritz said.
Fritz added, however, that accredited neighbourhood watches (NHWs) would need to obtain an adjusted Level 4 travel permit to continue patrols.
"NHWs do important work in being the eyes and ears of the police and we are happy to report that they are still allowed, under the existing regulations, to continue their patrols. This will continue to help ensure safe communities."
Ilitha Park neighbourhood watch coordinator Bulelwa Qoqa said they had been operating since Level 5 last year as "our services are very much essential, especially when Covid-19 numbers go [up]".
"It's always been business as usual for us."
Crime, however, is not their main focus during the harder lockdown restrictions, Qoda said, as they also help the police with raising Covid-19 awareness in public spaces, such as malls.
The Plattekloof, Welgelegen, Panorama and Kleinbosch neighbourhood watch was also operating as normal, with permits, and patrolling day and night, said vice-chairperson Willem van der Merwe.
Fritz's department urged NHWs, who have further questions regarding permits, to contact his office.