Gedragskode
All members of the AfriForum Delmas Valke are required to adhere to the Code of Conduct outlined below, which establishes clear standards of behavior, ethics, and operational responsibility. This Code provides strict guidelines to ensure that every member conducts themselves with integrity, professionalism, and respect, fostering a safe, disciplined, and cultured environment for both the Valke and the broader community they serve.
The Delmas Valke Buurtwag (“Valke Buurtwag”) was established to create a safer, more united community through cooperation, vigilance, and proactive crime prevention. Our aim is to:
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Promote Safety & Security: Assist in safeguarding residents, businesses, farms, and visitors in Delmas and surrounding areas by working closely with SAPS, AfriForum, private security companies, and other neighborhood watch structures.
Strengthen Community Well-being: Build trust and mutual support among neighbors by encouraging active participation, communication, and teamwork in matters affecting the safety and stability of our community.
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Prevent & Deter Crime:
Act as visible, responsible role players who discourage criminal activity through coordinated patrols, information sharing, and rapid response to emergencies. -
Provide Support in Emergencies:
Offer assistance in cases of crime, accidents, natural disasters, or other emergencies, always with respect for human life and dignity. -
Promote Professionalism & Accountability:
Ensure that every member acts responsibly, ethically, and within the boundaries of the law, thereby upholding the credibility and reputation of the Buurtwag. -
Preserve Community Values & Culture:
Support the protection of our town, families, and heritage by creating an environment where residents feel safe, respected, and empowered.
This Code of Conduct therefore sets the standard for all members of the Delmas Valke Buurtwag, guiding behavior and operations to ensure professionalism, accountability, and integrity at all times.
Obedience to the Law:
All members are required to act within the framework of the Constitution and the laws of South Africa. Any unlawful actions undermine the credibility of the Valke Buurtwag and place the entire community at risk. Members must lead by example and demonstrate respect for law and order at all times.-
No False Representation:
Members may not misrepresent themselves as members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Metro Police, or any private security company. The Buurtwag operates as a community safety structure, not as a law enforcement agency. Members should always make it clear that they are acting in the capacity of a neighborhood watch volunteer. -
Firearms and Weapons:
Firearms, batons, pepper spray, or any other self-defense tools may only be carried by individuals who are properly licensed and trained under the PSIRA guidelines. The use of such items must be strictly in line with South African law and only in circumstances where it is legally justified (e.g., self-defense or defense of life). Reckless or unlawful use of weapons will not be tolerated and will result in immediate disciplinary action. -
Staying Within Mandate:
Members may not act outside the defined scope and mandate of the Delmas Valke Buurtwag. This means:-
No independent “vigilante” actions.
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No searches, arrests, or questioning of suspects unless directly instructed by SAPS and permitted under the law.
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No entering private property without permission from the owner or Law enforcement (SAPS).
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No setting up unauthorized roadblocks, checkpoints, or operations.
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The role of every member is to observe, report, support, and assist, not to replace official law enforcement structures. By adhering to these principles, members help maintain the credibility, legality, and long-term effectiveness of the Buurtwag.
Accuracy and Relevance:
All information shared on Buurtwag communication platforms (radio, WhatsApp groups, AfriForum App, or any other official channel) must be factual, clear, and directly related to community safety or Buurtwag operations. Irrelevant messages, jokes, chain messages, or off-topic discussions should be avoided to keep channels focused and effective.-
Respectful Communication:
Members must always communicate in a respectful, professional, and courteous manner. Abusive language, personal attacks, discriminatory remarks, or inflammatory comments will not be tolerated. Every member represents the Buurtwag, and communication must reflect the integrity and unity of the group. -
No Rumors or False Information:
Members must not share unverified claims, rumors, or assumptions that could cause unnecessary panic, confusion, or harm. Before posting, members should confirm the accuracy of the information through trusted sources such as SAPS, AfriForum, private security companies, or the Buurtwag leadership. -
Confidentiality:
Certain information shared within the Buurtwag (such as suspect descriptions, operational details, or private addresses) is classified as confidential. This information may not be shared outside of official Buurtwag structures. Breaching confidentiality not only endangers operations but can also put members and the community at risk. -
Use of Communication Tools:
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The radio must be used primarily for urgent communication, incident reporting, and coordination during patrols or emergencies.
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The WhatsApp groups and apps are to be used for intelligence sharing, operational updates, and important announcements.
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Social media may only be used for public awareness with prior approval from leadership, ensuring no sensitive information is disclosed.
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By following these guidelines, members help ensure that Buurtwag communication remains trustworthy, professional, and effective in supporting the safety and well-being of the community.
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Respect for the Chain of Command:
During operations, patrols, or emergency responses, all members must follow instructions given by the Buurtwag leadership or designated operational commanders. Clear leadership ensures safety, coordination, and accountability. Members must not act independently in a way that disrupts or undermines operations. -
Engagement with Suspects:
Members may not physically engage, confront, or detain suspects unless it is absolutely necessary in a situation of self-defense or defense of another person’s life. The Buurtwag’s primary role is to observe, report, and support law enforcement, not to replace it. Any use of force must always be legally justified and proportional to the threat faced. -
Cooperation with Law Enforcement and Partners:
Coordination with SAPS, AfriForum structures, and private security companies is essential for effective operations. Members must respect the roles of these official bodies and provide support where needed. The Buurtwag may assist by securing perimeters, monitoring areas, reporting movement, or providing backup but arrests, searches, or seizures remain the responsibility of SAPS or authorized security personnel. -
Professional Conduct During Operations:
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Stay calm and composed, even under pressure.
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Avoid aggressive behavior, threats, or unnecessary escalation.
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Remain visible when required, using Buurtwag identification (reflective vests, radios, signage) to avoid misunderstandings.
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Respect private property and do not enter without permission or legal authority.
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Incident Reporting:
Every incident, whether large or small, must be reported factually and without exaggeration or omission. Reports should include:-
Date and time of the incident.
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Exact location (street, coordinates, or landmark).
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Clear description of events, vehicles, or suspects involved.
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Actions taken by members.
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Whether SAPS or security companies were contacted.
Fabricating, withholding, or altering information damages trust and may result in disciplinary action.
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By following these operational guidelines, members ensure that the Buurtwag functions as a credible, reliable, and effective community safety structure, protecting both its members and the wider community.
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Respect and Dignity:
Every member of the Buurtwag must treat fellow members, residents, law enforcement officers, security personnel, and even suspects with dignity and respect. Courtesy and professionalism are expected at all times, regardless of personal differences, frustration, or the pressure of a situation.-
Non-Discrimination:
The Valke Buurtwag is a community safety structure that serves all residents. Discrimination on the basis of race, gender, language, culture, religion, age, or social standing will not be tolerated. Members must actively work to build unity and inclusivity within the community, setting aside personal prejudice. -
Zero Tolerance for Harassment:
Harassment, intimidation, bullying, or the use of degrading or abusive language is strictly prohibited. This includes verbal, written, or online behavior that could harm the reputation, well-being, or safety of another person. -
Integrity and Honesty:
Members must act truthfully in all circumstances, especially when reporting incidents or sharing information. Dishonesty, exaggeration, or manipulation of facts damages the credibility of the Buurtwag and can compromise community safety. -
Community First:
All decisions and actions taken by members must be guided by what is in the best interest of the community as a whole. Personal conflicts, grudges, or self-interest should never interfere with the responsibilities of a member. -
Responsible Conduct in Public:
Members represent the Buurtwag both during official operations and in everyday life. Public behavior should reflect positively on the Buurtwag avoiding reckless driving, intoxication while on duty, or behavior that could bring the organization into disrepute. -
Role Model Responsibility:
Members should strive to set an example for others in the community by showing discipline, accountability, and a commitment to justice and safety.
By upholding these ethical standards, the Delmas Valke Buurtwag ensures that it remains a trusted, respected, and unified force for the protection and well-being of all residents.
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Responsible Use:
All Buurtwag resources including radios, vehicles, patrol equipment, uniforms, identification, mobile apps, bulletproof vasts and other tools must be used solely for official Buurtwag purposes. These resources are provided to enhance community safety, improve communication, and support operations, and must not be used for personal benefit, entertainment, or non-Buurtwag activities.-
Equipment Maintenance:
Members are responsible for the proper care and maintenance of all equipment issued to them. Radios should be kept charged, vests maintained responsibly, and any damage or malfunction reported immediately to leadership. Negligence in handling equipment can compromise operations and member safety. -
No Misuse, Fraud, or Theft: Misappropriation, unauthorized use, theft, or fraudulent activities involving Buurtwag resources is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:
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Using equipment for personal gain.
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Selling or loaning Buurtwag property to non-members.
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Tampering with or misreporting operational data or logs.
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Accountability:
Each member is accountable for the resources issued to them. In cases of damage, loss, or misuse, the member may be held responsible for replacement costs or face disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from the Valke Buurtwag. -
Digital and Communication Resources:
Apps, radios, and online platforms provided by the Valke Buurtwag or AfriForum must be used responsibly and in line with operational guidelines. Sharing login credentials, sensitive information, or using platforms for personal purposes undermines the integrity of the Valke Buurtwag.
By following these guidelines, members ensure that all Buurtwag resources remain effective, secure, and available to protect the community and support operational efficiency.
Protection of Sensitive Information:
Members may have access to information that is sensitive in nature, including suspect descriptions, addresses, operational plans, patrol schedules, or intelligence from SAPS, AfriForum, and private security partners. Such information must remain strictly within the Buurtwag and should only be shared with other members on a need-to-know basis for operational purposes.-
No Personal Use:
Information obtained through Buurtwag membership may never be used for personal gain. This includes using knowledge of security weaknesses, criminal activity, or member locations for financial, social, or personal advantage. Misuse of information will be treated as a serious breach of trust and can result in immediate disciplinary action or removal from the Delmas Valke Buurtwag. -
Digital Security:
Members must handle digital communications (apps, WhatsApp groups, radios, emails) responsibly. Sharing screenshots, forwarding messages to outsiders, or posting operational information on social media is strictly prohibited. Passwords, access codes, and other digital credentials must remain confidential. -
Respecting Privacy:
The privacy of residents, property owners, and fellow members must always be respected. Recording or photographing individuals without consent, or sharing personal information beyond operational needs, violates the trust of the community and the integrity of the Delmas Valke Buurtwag. -
Legal and Ethical Responsibility:
Breaches of confidentiality may not only damage the Buurtwag’s credibility but can also have legal consequences under South African privacy, data protection, and criminal laws. Members are expected to understand the importance of discretion and act responsibly in all situations.
By adhering to these principles, members help ensure that the Delmas Valke Buurtwag operates as a trusted, professional, and secure community safety structure, protecting both the community and its members.
Commitment to Accountability:
Every member of the Delmas Valke Buurtwag is expected to act responsibly, ethically, and in accordance with this Code of Conduct. Members are accountable not only to the leadership of the Buurtwag but also to the community they serve. Accountability ensures trust, reliability, and the effectiveness of the Buurtwag’s operations.-
Disciplinary Measures:
Members who breach any part of this Code may face disciplinary action, depending on the severity and circumstances of the violation. Possible measures include:-
Verbal or Written Warning: For minor infractions or first-time offenses.
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Suspension: Temporary removal from operational duties while the issue is investigated.
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Permanent Removal: For serious or repeated violations, the member may be permanently expelled from the Buurtwag.
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Reporting to Authorities:
Serious violations that involve illegal activity, misuse of resources, or endangerment of members or the community may be reported to AfriForum, SAPS, or other relevant authorities. Members must understand that certain breaches may carry legal consequences beyond Buurtwag disciplinary action. -
Transparent Investigation Process:
All disciplinary matters will be handled in a fair and transparent manner. The member in question will be given an opportunity to provide their account of the incident before any final decision is made. -
Responsibility to Self and Others:
Members must recognize that their actions reflect not only on themselves but on the entire Buurtwag. By adhering to the Code, members contribute to the integrity, credibility, and safety of the community and the organization as a whole. -
Encouragement of Reporting Violations:
Members are encouraged to report observed misconduct or breaches of the Code to leadership promptly. Timely reporting helps prevent escalation, ensures safety, and maintains operational integrity.
By enforcing accountability, the Delmas Valke Buurtwag ensures that it remains a trusted, professional, and respected community safety structure.
By membership of the Delmas Valke Buurtwag, members make a formal commitment to uphold this Code of Conduct and to consistently act with integrity, responsibility, and loyalty towards the community they serve. Membership is not passive; it requires active participation, dedication, and adherence to the principles and standards set by the Buurtwag.
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Active Participation:
Members are expected to participate fully in all assigned duties, including:-
Regular radio test patrols and operational exercises.
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Attending meetings, training sessions, or briefings as required.
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Responding promptly to emergencies or alerts, while acting within the bounds of the Buurtwag mandate.
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Upholding the Delmas Valke Culture:
Members must embody the values, traditions, and culture of the Delmas Valke Buurtwag. This includes demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, respect for fellow members, and pride in serving the community. Members should act as role models, promoting a sense of unity and civic responsibility among residents. -
Integrity and Responsibility:
Members are expected to make decisions that prioritize the safety, well-being, and trust of the community over personal convenience or gain. Ethical behavior, honesty, and accountability must guide all actions, both during operations and in everyday interactions. -
Loyalty to the Community:
Members commit to protecting the residents, businesses, and infrastructure of Delmas and surrounding areas. This commitment extends beyond mere physical presence; it includes proactive vigilance, reporting suspicious activity, and supporting initiatives that enhance community security. -
Continuous Improvement:
Members should strive to improve their skills, knowledge, and understanding of security, emergency response, and community engagement. This commitment ensures the Buurtwag remains a professional, effective, and respected organization.
By joining the Delmas Valke Buurtwag, members accept that they are part of a team dedicated to the protection and well-being of the community. Their commitment is reflected not only in completing routine tasks but in actively promoting the values, safety, and culture of the Buurtwag at all times.
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Examples of Disrepute:
Members must avoid behaviors that could bring the Buurtwag into disrepute, including but not limited to:-
Publicly criticizing the Buurtwag, its leadership, or fellow members in a harmful or unconstructive manner.
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Misusing social media to spread false, misleading, or damaging information about the Buurtwag or its operations.
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Acting recklessly, illegally, or unethically while identifiable as a Buurtwag member.
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Engaging in personal disputes in a manner that affects the Buurtwag’s reputation.
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Responsibility to Protect the Buurtwag:
Members are expected to behave in a manner that strengthens public trust in the organization. This includes demonstrating professionalism, ethical behavior, and respect in all interactions with the community, law enforcement, and partner organizations. -
Consequences of Disrepute:
Actions that bring the Buurtwag into disrepute will result in disciplinary measures, which may include warnings, suspension, or permanent removal. Serious incidents may also be reported to AfriForum, SAPS, or other relevant authorities, particularly if legal or ethical boundaries have been breached.Guidelines for Handling Internal Disagreements
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Address Issues Early:
Do not let disagreements fester. Speak privately with the person involved as soon as possible to clarify misunderstandings. -
Communicate Respectfully:
Use calm, respectful language. Focus on the issue, not personal attacks or past grievances. -
Follow the Chain of Command:
If the disagreement cannot be resolved between members, escalate it to the team leader or Buurtwag coordinator for mediation. -
Prioritize the Mission:
Always put the safety of the community and the effectiveness of operations above personal differences. -
Seek Mediation if Needed:
Neutral parties, such as senior members or AfriForum representatives, can help mediate conflicts fairly. -
Document Serious Conflicts:
For persistent or serious disagreements that affect operations, keep a factual record of the issue, actions taken, and resolutions agreed upon. -
Maintain Professionalism in Public:
Never display disagreements during patrols, meetings with residents, or when interacting with SAPS or other security partners.
Outcome: By following these steps, the Delmas Valke can ensure internal disagreements are resolved efficiently, maintaining team cohesion, trust, and operational effectiveness.
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By adhering to these principles, members help ensure that the Delmas Valke Buurtwag remains a respected, trusted, and effective community safety organization, whose credibility is never compromised by individual actions.
Gedragskode
Delmas Valke Buurtwag Code of Conduc /Gedragskode: Dated: 18 March 2025.
Contact Us: If you have any questions about the Code of Conduct; feel free to contact us by:; 📞 Phone: +27 82 925 5849; ✉️ Email: <info@delmasvalke.co.za>; Carel Botha Valke Voorsitter; Contact Valke; Delmas; 2210; Mpumalanga; South Africa; +27 82 925 5849; info@delmasvalke.co.za; © 2025 Valke Delmas
Carel Botha Valke Voorsitter
📞 Phone: +27 82 925 5849
✉️ Email: info@delmasvalke.co.za