Ocean View CPF chairman takes on new crime-fighting role

After eight years of service on the Ocean View Community Police Forum (CPF) – six of them as chairperson – Mansoer Ismail is stepping down to take on new responsibilities in the City of Cape Town’s broader safety structure.

Mr Ismail has been promoted to the City of Cape Town District Executive as a project manager and duty chairperson of the Wynberg sub-district.

In his new role, Mr Ismail will support and monitor CPFs and police stations across the sub-district. “The new role for the sub-district is to check if everything is okay – no disputes – and to look after our CPFs,” he explained. “I try to resolve issues and secure resources for them.”

Although he is taking on a new role, he says he’s not turning his back on Ocean View and Masiphumelele. “Even though I’m no longer the chair, I’ll still be around. I’m still going to sit in on meetings. My heart is here, and I’ll continue to support wherever I can,” he said.

Under his leadership, the CPF worked closely with the Neighbourhood Watch, SAPS, Community in Blue and local councillors. He believes these partnerships were key to building a safer community.

In May 2024, the CPF helped equip Neighbourhood Watch members with radios, jackets, boots and vests. “We wanted to empower the community to take an active role in crime prevention,” he said.

He also championed the Community in Blue (CIB) programme at Ocean View High School, encouraging parents to help patrol the school grounds and assist with safety checks. “It’s all about creating a safer space for our kids,” he added.

Mr Ismail was also quick to respond to concerns from schools, particularly around vaping among pupils. After speaking with principals, he called for greater police involvement to stop the sale of e-cigarettes to minors.

In April 2023, after a shooting claimed the lives of six people in Ocean View, Mr Ismail publicly urged the community to remain calm and vigilant. He pointed out that the victims were not from the area, highlighting the need to be alert to external threats.

Taking over the role of the CPF chair is Rushda Richards.

Ms Richards, who has served on the CPF board, said she feels ready to lead and continue the momentum. “I'm thrilled to take on the role of CPF chairperson. My experience on the board has been instrumental in preparing me for this position,” she said. “When Mr Ismail and the station commander approached me, I felt honoured but also aware of the high standards to uphold.”

She said the transition has been encouraging. “Over the past few weeks, I've been impressed by the team's professionalism and productivity, and I'm confident I'm in the right position to make a positive impact,” she said.

Ms Richards also expressed appreciation for the support she’s received in stepping into the role. “The brigadier's warm welcome and enthusiasm about having more women in the CPF is a positive sign for diversity and inclusion in this organisation. I feel supported and valued in my new role. I am starting on the right foot.”

Looking ahead, Mr Ismail says he’s ready for what comes next. “I’m excited about this new role. It’s a new adventure,” he said.