Crime in the Carletonville area affects young and old
Many children and young people are being affected.
Our area is facing a severe crisis as escalating violence and social problems take a heavy toll on the community. Recent reports shed light on alarming trends that are deeply affecting local residents, particularly the youth.
The Herald reports every week of serious violent crimes such as house robberies, kidnappings and hijackings.
The impact of violence extends into the local schools, where gangsterism has become a significant issue. “There is a considerable risk to daily school life, especially among students,” says Lin-Clair Van Wyk, a social worker with the South African Victim’s Foundation (SAVF). The infiltration of gangs into schools is creating an unsafe environment and disrupting students’ education.
One particularly troubling case reported by the SAVF involves a 14-year-old boy who received a five-year suspended sentence for sexually grooming a 7-year-old girl. After his 18th birthday, he was transferred to the Walter Sisulu Psychological Centre for Children. “He is currently doing very well at the centre and is participating positively in the activities offered,” Van Wyk noted. This case highlights the severe challenges facing young people in Carltonville and underscores the importance of effective rehabilitation programs.
Another distressing situation involves a 16-year-old boy whose parents committed suicide in his presence. This traumatic event has led him to display concerning behavior, including targeting other students at his school. “The boy has exhibited violent tendencies and has attempted to influence other students with harmful messages,” Van Wyk explained. His behavior reflects the profound psychological impact of his parents’ deaths, demonstrating the deep-seated effects of such trauma.
The SAVF has also reported a troubling trend of drug abuse among children aged 10 to 13 in Khutsong, . “Crystal meth use is becoming increasingly common among these young children,” Van Wyk revealed. The rise in crystal meth use is associated with a spike in sexual violence, with numerous cases of rape reported among affected youth. This connection underscores the urgent need for comprehensive support and intervention for vulnerable children.
