Concerns around the safety and security of high school learners in the Crystal Park area have come to a head after police discovered that many learners use drugs in schools.
The Crystal Park police are concerned about the number of learners found in possession of dagga, alcohol and illicit drugs during their school searches.
Social Crime Prevention officer Sgt Lerato Mopeli said the station is working tirelessly with the schools in order to tackle the issue of drugs on school premises.
ALSO READ:
Police give valuable safety tips
“The station, with the EMPD, patrollers, correctional services, Victim Empowerment Centre (VEC) Youth desk and South Africa National Council on Alcoholism (SANCA) will conduct weekly unannounced school searches and will ensure there is police visibility in schools,” said Mopeli.
“We will also conduct more talks and drug alcohol awareness campaigns to educate the learners about the danger of drugs and the negative effects they have in their lives.”
Mopedi explained further that being in possession of drugs, belonging to you or someone else is a criminal offence and is punishable by the state.
“The nature of the punishment will depend on different things such as age, precious convictions and the seriousness of the offence, she said.
“When found in possession of any illicit drugs, a case docket will be opened and the learner will be arrested.
“If he/she is a minor the learner will be released into the custody of the parents or guardian.”
She added that parents are encouraged to be more involved in their children’s lives and making an effort to visit their schools to find out their progress and behavior in class.
“The Department of Education is facing a serious challenge as in some cases parents are not attending school meetings where serious issues concerning their children are discussed,” said Mopeli.
“The other challenge is wrong information given to the school during registration by the parent’s e.g contact number and the address.”
Mopeli would also like to appreciate the good working relationship between her and the management of the schools around the Crystal Park policing area and would like to assure them that she will always be a phone call away.
Station commander Lt Col Belinda Motaung said as the station they will continue to work with the schools and provide them with all the support they need.
“We will try our best to change the learners’ mindset so they are the future leaders of our country,” said Moutang.
“We also encourage parents to instill discipline in their children so they can be able to make right decisions in their parent’s absence.”
Moutang said discipline is a vital characteristic to have and a weapon for survival. It is even more beneficial when backed by education.
She provided the following tips for parents:
• Sharpen your parenting skills. Emphasise and build on your children’s strengths.
• Teach your children how to reduce their risks of becoming crime victims.
• Know where your children are, what they are doing, and who they are with, at all times.
• Set clear rules about acceptable activities, in advance.
• Help your children learn non-violent ways to handle frustration, anger and conflict.
• Do not allow your child to carry guns, knives or other weapons.
• Become involved in your child’s school activities and field trips.
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
For more #hyperlocal news at your fingertips, visit Boksburg Advertiser, Springs Advertiser, Brakpan Herald, African Reporter and Kathorus Mail
