Chatsworth mourns 'community hero' Jakes Singh

FORMER Chatsworth Community Policing Forum  (CPF) chairperson Jakes Singh (69) has passed away from a suspected heart attack.

The award-winning community leader, whose leadership helped Chatsworth CPF win national recognition in 2018, is being remembered for his selfless service and dedication to community-police relations.

Tributes have poured in for, Singh, who passed away after a short illness yesterday (Tuesday).

He was described as a community leader who was actively involved in fighting social issues. 

During his tenure as chairperson, the Chatsworth CPF scooped the national CPF of the Year award from SAPS in 2018. 

His death has been described as a “loss to the community”.

Bayview CPF chairperson, Brandon Pillay, said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jakes. He was a dedicated community leader whose commitment to safety, service, and unity left a lasting impact on Chatsworth. 

“His leadership and selfless contribution to creating and maintaining community-police relations will be remembered with gratitude and respect. His hard work and dedication led to the CPF scooping the CPF of the year award.

“His contribution to the community speaks volumes of his character. I had the opportunity to work with him personally and can truly say that his loss is huge for our community. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy of service continue to inspire us all,” Pillay said.

Current CPF chairperson, Yugen Pillay, said the community was in mourning.

“The Chatsworth CPF and the community we serve extend our condolences to the family and friends of the late Jakes. His contribution will be remembered,” he added.

A close friend and the former PRO of the Chatsworth CPF, Selvan Moodley, said Singh loved his community, and he will be remembered for the selfless service to the community.

“Jakes gave countless hours of his time and resources for the betterment of the community. His death is not only a loss to his family and friends, but to the community at large. May he rest in peace,” Moodley said.

Singh’s funeral will be held on Saturday, January 31, at the Arena Park Regional Hall in Chatsworth from 10:30am to 2:30pm, thereafter proceeding to the Clare Estate Umgeni Hindu Crematorium Society from 3pm to 4:30pm.

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