WATCH: JMPD female officers observe Women’s Month

Motorists were in for a surprise as JMPD female officers held a roadblock to celebrate Women’s Month on August 16.

The committed force stationed itself on Kliprivier Drive in West Turffontein on August 16.

Unlike normal roadblocks, the JMPD members stood in solidarity to discourage gender-based violence (GBV) and intimate partner violence.

The morning was also dedicated to appreciating female drivers as they were handed flowers by these female officers. Motorists were also informed on issues affecting them during this lockdown period, such as the renewal of driver’s licenses, among others.

According to Angie Mokasi, JMPD director of operations, they kicked off Women’s Month by visiting different regions where they hosted a similar event.

“We are trying to send out a message to women and society at large that we are saying no to gender-based violence. As much as everyone is celebrating Women’s Month, the unfortunate part is that we perish at the hands of those we say we love,” she said.

She told the CHRONICLE that on the day motorists were offered resourceful information as they made a stop during the roadblock.

WATCH: A video showing JMPD members during their roadblock

“We educated them about Covid-19 and our processes during this time since some people are still driving with expired discs and licenses. We were not making arrests, but if we were to come across wrongdoing, that person would be brought to book,” said Mokasi.

She urged women to take a stand against the ordeal of GBV.

“Half of the time this abuse happens behind closed doors. However, we are saying to women, let’s sensitise them about this monster that they are dealing with. They must have hope in law enforcement and report it whenever this crime happens,” she said.

With the country having moved to alert level two of the lockdown and many regulations lifted, Mokasi said they will be hard at work.

“We cannot stay in lockdown forever as a country. As regulations are flexed, it then means law enforcement must do more. We also need to enforce regulations as per the announcement of the President. People need to make sure that they comply with regulations,” she said.

She also stated that they will be visiting bottle stores to see if social distancing is observed and whether bottle stores and consumers comply with regulations.

The City has also shared a 24-hour telephone hotline which has been set up to offer support to victims of GBV by contacting 0800 223 217.

The toll-free iThemba line will provide emotional support, crisis intervention, tele-counseling as well as containment of feelings and situations. It will also offer victims with 24-hour access to professional help and a network of support services.