Members of the Phoenix Crime and Community Assist online NPC who have more than 250 000 online followers.
Image: SUPPLIED
In a country where crime remains one of the most urgent threats to daily life, a Phoenix-based non-profit has spent the last decade proving that ordinary citizens can make an extraordinary difference. Phoenix Crime and Community Assist (PCCA) turned ten this March, celebrating a milestone built on trust, volunteerism and a simple belief: that informed communities are safer communities.
What began in 2016 as a free online service sharing traffic updates and service delivery alerts has grown into a registered NPC with over 25,000 followers on its WhatsApp channel. Its reach now extends from emergency response and anonymous tip‑offs to feeding schemes and student support.
But the organisation is not resting on its past. Looking ahead, PCCA is strengthening its outreach programmes, forging new partnerships with local NPCs and NPOs, and expanding a vacancy channel to connect residents with jobs.
“Reaching 10 years is not only a celebration of time passed but a reflection of trust earned,” said founding member Edwin Narothan. “This milestone belongs to every volunteer, member, supporter and resident who has stood with PCCA. What lies ahead, we may not fully know, but one thing remains certain: PCCA will continue to keep the community informed, support those in need and serve with integrity, dedication and heart.”
PCCA was set up in 2016 as a free online service dedicated to making life safer and service delivery more accessible to communities in Durban. Using platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp, PCCA was formed by like‑minded individuals who saw a need within the community for assistance. What began with a focus on traffic updates and service delivery issues quickly grew into a registered NPC.
In the early years, PCCA joined the Civil Crime Intelligence Network (CCIN), a public‑private partnership utilising high‑tech surveillance and real‑time data to fight crime. Under the leadership of founder Dr Reza Patel, the partnership provided valuable guidance and a solid legal foundation that helped shape how PCCA operates responsibly within the community today.
PCCA also partnered with various traffic groups, ensuring that residents remained informed and aware of developments affecting their daily lives. PCCA role‑players regularly attended Community Policing Forum (CPF) meetings to stay updated on crime trends in Phoenix and to understand ongoing efforts to combat it.
Phoenix Crime and Community Assist during one of their many outreach programs.
Image: SUPPLIED
Founding member Donovan Chetty remembers the struggle to help keep people informed and educated on what to do in reporting service delivery issues.
“When we first started, people didn’t know what to do if they needed help in an emergency. We have always encouraged active interaction, asking people to tell us about a problem, incident or crime. Over time, the information we shared became more accurate and more people began following.”
Narothan said their work also extended into more direct community impact.
“We ran anonymous tip‑offs that assisted in identifying drug dens, some of which were successfully raided. When illegal street racing became a concern on JG Champion Drive, we secured sponsorship to install warning boards. This initiative played a role in temporarily stopping the racing for a period.”
“Our teams have stood alongside the community during some of its most difficult moments, assisting during fires, floods, the COVID‑19 pandemic and even the Tongaat tornado. These moments reinforced our purpose to serve wherever help is needed.”
A major milestone for PCCA was the registration of PCCA Outreach as an NPC. While this achievement was a proud moment, it was also bittersweet as the individual behind the idea, Phoenix resident and founding member Clive Pillay, passed on before his vision could take form.
“We continue to honour that vision by growing the outreach initiative with purpose and compassion,” said Outreach Lead Co‑ordinator Sharlene Jagaysor.
As a woman in the group, Jagaysor took on the responsibility of leading various outreach programmes within the organisation.
“When PCCA first started, we fielded a lot of calls in terms of emergency service. But then came requests for food and hampers. As a female I took these calls very differently from the guys, so I suggested the outreach programmes.”
Currently PCCA is spearheading a multifaceted outreach initiative, specifically tailored to address the pressing needs of underprivileged students within local schools.
“The PCCA team has dedicated itself to ensuring that every child has access to a wholesome meal, be it breakfast or lunch. We would also like to extend our gratitude to our valued sponsors, whose generous support has been instrumental in making this initiative a success. Without their help, this vital work would not be possible,” said Jagaysor.
Narothan noted that as early as 2017, PCCA was already making a difference beyond information sharing.
“Feeding schemes were introduced to support families in need, and we launched our daily Durban weather updates along with a Quote of the Day. These updates have since become a consistent source of information, encouragement and reassurance to many.”
Looking ahead, Jagaysor said, “In 2026, we are moving forward with renewed focus, strengthening our outreach programmes and partnering with other local NPCs and NPOs to expand our impact.”
Today, PCCA’s WhatsApp channel has grown to over 25,000 followers.
“We have also recently launched a vacancy channel to help connect community members with employment opportunities, further supporting upliftment and growth,” said Chetty.
For more information about PCCA or to get involved, contact the organisation via its social media platforms.