Disappearing children: Proactive parenting encouraged

EASTCLIFF – Project Lollipop was launched by Lead SA, together with local SAPS and Mondeor Primary School learners, at The Glen on June 5.

94.7’s Darren Simpson, Lead SA activists Yusuf Abramjee and Catherine Constantinides, together with Mondeor SAPS, Booysens SAPS, Moffatview SAPS, Mondeor Primary School learners and community activist Sue Lubbe were all present to show their support. The project coincided with National Child Protection Week and the aim was to issue a stern warning that the simple approach of a stranger with a lollipop could lure your child away from your life forever. The project also aimed to encourage parents to keep a close eye on their children, especially in busy public spaces.

“Project Lollipop was activated and students handed out lollipops with messages to raise awareness about the importance of being vigilant about your child’s safety in busy areas, such as shopping centres,” said Marisa Oosthuizen, Crime Line coordinator,

Captain Joseph Makhubela of the Moffatview SAPS said: “The project is good and is assisting us, as SAPS, to work together with the community in finding missing children.”

Phillip Venter of Moffatview CPF said: “We’re very happy we’re having this project. It’s a good outreach for children and I’m glad the SAPS is here. The safety and security of children is close to our hearts. Children will also realise that police officers actually care about them.”

The importance of having the latest photograph of yourself and of your children was another one of the many counteractive measures highlighted by Lead SA.

“The exhibition involves empty picture frames that represent children who have gone missing and the trauma that families consequently experience. This was in line with advice to parents to keep a recent photograph of their child on themselves at all times,” said Oosthuizen.

Mondeor Primary School learners had their profile photos taken, printed and handed to them on site by a professional photographer.