Cape Town - The Rocklands community in Mitchell’s Plain is mourning the loss of a cherished local hero, Frederick Pullen, who passed away of old age on Saturday.

The 87-year-old crime-fighting stalwart was a founding member of what is now known as the Rocklands Neighbourhood Watch, having initially established the Sky Hawks Neighbourhood Watch in 1992.

Pullen was renowned for his remarkable crime-fighting efforts, often seen patrolling the streets on his cherished bicycle, ensuring that families felt safe within their homes.

His daughter, Gwen Pullen, highlighted the legacy her father left behind.

“My dad’s bike was like his second legs. If he couldn’t walk that day, and was on his bike, then he was 100 percent.”

She said many residents also recalled stories of her father often placing himself in harm’s way for the sake of others.

“The stories that people were telling is that in the morning around 5am, my dad on his bike walked with women to the station, he was unique. “A legend in this area,” she said. In a 2017 interview, Pullen exuded confidence in his mission.

“I have no fear. When gangsters see me, they skrik (are frightened) and run away. I’m not strong, but I’m a tough team player, as everyone knows by now,” he said.

Pullen leaves behind six children, 26 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from all corners of Mitchell's Plain.

Valerie Moses, a member of the Rocklands Neighbourhood Watch shared her memories of Pullen’s relentless commitment to crime prevention.

“When he would arrive on a corner and there were boys sitting, he took out the radio and called in.

“He was never afraid. He was respected in the community,” she said.

Last year, the Mitchell’s Plain Community Policing Forum (CPF) honoured Pullen for his dedication.

Lynn Phillips from the Cape Flats Safety Forum said Pullen consistently placed the community’s needs above all else.

“He has been the beacon of hope for many people in Mitchell’s Plain. We will surely miss him,” Phillips said.

Gwen added that she and many residents are committed to fighting crime in their community, particularly with the festivities of the approaching festive season.

“We will fight crime, we will fight gangsterism, and we will try to bring the criminals to book,” she said.

byron.lukas@inl.co.za

Cape Argus