Cleveland SAPS Youth Desk members held a successful march on June 22 to raise awareness on problems experienced by youngsters in the precinct.
The March Against All Odds also highlighted alcohol abuse, teen pregnancy and dropping out of school.
This was the Youth Desks first big event to voice its concerns and get the community involved in the fight against problems holding youngsters back from achieving their goals.
The community showed interest in the march and members were able to educate people about the effect of drugs and alcohol abuse. In an article published last month Kholofelo Baloyi, the secretary of the Youth Desk, explained how drug dealers were making use of vulnerable children. Drug dealers are using them to get drugs into schools. People are also preying on youngsters at local nightclubs and taverns.
Drinks are spiked and girls risk being raped.
Just a few months ago only a handful of people highlighted concerns and called for authorities to take action against drug dealers. Mr Mike Spadino, chairperson of the Malvern United Community Forum and Sector 3 Crime Forum, demanded authorities take action in the suburb the way they have in areas such as Eldorado Park. Mr Rob Crawford, Sector 1 Crime Forum chairperson, said drug dealing in Ernest Oppenheimer Road, in Bruma, was increasing and just about anyone was approached to buy drugs.
Recent weeks have seen more community involvement.
Residents are voicing their concerns and reporting drug dealers and hotspots. The Chinese Community Police Forum (CCPF) highlighted the effect drugs are having on their community. High ranking Chinese officials are working with the community to help those on drugs by taking them to associations that offer professional help.
Community involvement has led to authorities increasing operations and making more arrests.
