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As the country approaches the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign, SAPS Namakwa calls on all communities to reflect on the devastating impact of violence and to take a firm stand against all forms of abuse, assault and gender-based violence.
The campaign serves as a reminder that the responsibility to prevent violence does not rest with law enforcement agencies alone. Families, community leaders, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders must work together to create environments where women, children and vulnerable persons are safe, protected and treated with dignity.
Violence should never be normalised, excused or resolved through further violence.
Communities are encouraged to break the silence surrounding abuse, support victims and report perpetrators to the relevant authorities.
Brigadier Andrews urges members of the community to adhere to the following safety measures:
– Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol fuels aggression and impairs judgement. If you have been drinking, avoid confrontations and walk away from arguments.
– Do not carry dangerous weapons: Refrain from carrying knives or other dangerous weapons. A minor disagreement can escalate into a life-threatening incident within seconds.
– Resolve conflicts peacefully: Seek constructive ways to resolve disagreements. Where necessary, request assistance from trusted family members, community leaders or Community Policing Forum (CPF) members.
– Do not abuse the criminal justice system: The opening of false criminal cases for personal or financial gain is unacceptable and constitutes a criminal offence.
– Protect victims of domestic violence: Do not turn a blind eye to domestic violence or escalating disputes. Report incidents to the police immediately.
– Safeguard children: Parents and guardians are urged to know where their children are, who they associate with and to create an environment where children feel safe to report abuse to a trusted adult.
– Report criminal incidents without delay: Early reporting assists police in gathering evidence, conducting effective investigations and apprehending suspects.
SAPS Namakwa further appeals to community members to actively participate in the fight against crime by reporting suspicious activities and incidents of violence before they escalate into serious or fatal situations.
Members of the public are encouraged to report criminal activities at their nearest police station, through the Radio NFM – SAPS Help Desk, the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or via the MySAPS App.
All information received will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
Brigadier Andrews emphasises that building safer communities requires a united effort. The protection of life, particularly that of women and children, must remain a collective priority. Communities are urged to reject violence, promote responsible behaviour and work alongside SAPS to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. END
Enquiries:
Captain Ivan Magerman
SAPS Namakwa Communications Officer
083 478 9317
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