Police roadshow raises anti-violence awareness
ALEXANDRA - Alex police recently interacted with the public through a road show to high light their concern on domestic violence, women and child abuse said to be rampant in Alex.
Alex police interacted with the public during a roadshow to highlight domestic violence, and women and child abuse said to be rampant in Alex.
Blaring sirens and messages through a loudspeaker attracted the public’s interest, and pamphlets on human rights, anti-abuse and substance abuse were distributed.
The exercise was also part of the police’s involvement in promoting the international campaign of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
Lieutenant Ali Kodisang said the campaign was an ongoing effort by the police and stakeholders to highlight the concerns on abuse in the township. “Police need the public’s awareness and involvement to curb this,” he said.
The police were joined by NPOs, churches, and Community Policing Forums as they visited crime hotspots including parks, traffic circles and hostels.
Elizabeth Mokwena, of NPO Kidz Clinic, said child rape was a concern with children at risk from relatives and neighbours. She said the victims were also left at risk of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV.
Siphiwe Biyela of NPO Women In Faith Against Drug Abuse said the campaign also raised awareness on other social ills that impacted families and children, such as drug abuse.
Residents applauded the event and urged for more police visibility, especially during the festive season.
The entourage also laid wreaths at parks in honour of victims of abuse and for police officers who lost their lives protecting the public.
