Young and old gathered at the KwaThema Community Hall on Saturday to hear more about drug abuse.
The event, organised by the metro in partnership with the KwaThema Local Drug Action Committee, started with a march to appeal for the community’s assistance in fighting against drug abuse in the township.
Different non-profit organisations, drug addicts and members of the crime prevention units from the local police stations were present at the event.
Speaking on behalf of the Local Drug Action Committee, chairman Thabang Xaba said the event was aimed at trying to find a solution regarding the drug abuse that has led to many families losing their children due to their arrest in connection with dealing with drugs and other drug-related criminal activities.
“We want to educate our communities to take responsibility to fight against drug use in the areas where we live,” said Xaba.
Vuyisile Mahlangu (25) is a drug addict and admitted to have committed crimes such as house robbery in order to satisfy his cravings for nyaope. Vuyisile has been using nyaope for five years.
He said he lost his job eight months ago because, when at work he could not control his craving for the drug and that he could not wait until payday to have money for the drug.
“I quit my job so that I can have time to make quick cash to buy the drug any time I needed to,” he said.
Adding that he had stolen all the cutlery, electric appliances and curtains at his home to sell or exchange them for drugs, however, he admitted that he needs help to beat his addiction.
KwaThema customer care centre manager, Andries Nkabinde said many robberies that have occurred in the township are proved to be related to drug use.
He said drug abuse traumatises the teachers at school, parents and the community.
“Drug use destroys the future of our children as they have formed gang groups in schools,” said Nkabinde.
He appealed to the parents to educate their children about the consequences of using drugs.
