The Brakpan SAPS collaborated with the Ekurhuleni Health Department and CPF to conduct a compliance check at private schools, including preschools and créches in Sector 1.
The Sector 1 policing area comprises the Brakpan CBD, Brakpan West (dam), Anzac, Brakpan East (Power Street to Bedford Street, Voortrekker Road to Boundary Road) and Brakpan North.
Parade was held at Brakpan SAPS, and conducted by Vispol support head Lieutenant Colonel Pearl van Staad, who motivated the members by telling them to not be discouraged, but to join forces to eradicate lawlessness in the area.
The enthusiastic team was led by SAPS Sector 1 manager Constable Audrey Buthelezi, who was supported by the CPF Sector 1 chairperson, Simon Mabuse.
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Seven premises operating as private schools were visited. Two day care centres and three private primary schools were closed by health inspectors for failing to produce documentation of zoning, business registration, and for the state in which the premises were.
“In South Africa, the Department of Basic Education places immense importance on the health and safety in schools.
“The health and safety policy is a crucial framework that protects children, guides staff and ensures compliance with the law,” Buthelezi explained.
“The policies foster a positive and secure environment, and the SAPS and health department play a major role in schools in that regard.”
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The collaboration of both departments performs the role of ensuring safety, and that children are not targeted by crime groups.
Buthelezi noted that the SAPS is guided by the National School Safety Framework (NSSF), which is a wide-ranging approach to addressing violence occurring in schools, by focusing on prevention, intervention and response.
Buthelezi further explained that an operation of this caliber is the SAPS’ intervention and prevention approach.
“Some of these private schools are in a disturbing state of filth, with no running water. Parents are urged to verify the school before enrolling their children,” she said.
