The Germiston SAPS organised a vibrant Youth Sports Against Crime soccer tournament at the Dukathole Sports Ground, combining fun and fitness with community engagement.
The event featured a top-four soccer tournament and an aerobics session, entertaining young and old.
The tournament highlight was the crime prevention warden’s team, who triumphed over the SAPS squad with a 2-1 victory, securing the coveted trophy, gold medals, and a new kit.
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The day began with a fitness demonstration by elders from the Dukathole elderly centre, followed by matches involving the SAPS, the crime prevention wardens, the Youth Desk, and EMS teams.
Vendors added to the lively atmosphere, selling fruits and peanuts while sharing their experiences and concerns about crime with law enforcement officers.
Local visual artist Vuyo Mugwevu captivated attendees with his displayed artwork throughout the event.
The tournament, marking the end of Youth Month, aimed to engage the youth in meaningful activities and provide a drug- and alcohol-free environment.
“We wanted to use sports to engage the youth in meaningful exercise and engage with them in a drug- and alcohol-free environment,” said Germiston SAPS Sergeant Mpho Mokgawa.
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Sponsors Graphite and CPS security, Germiston Cash & Carry, and Roxana Fruit Market made the event possible.
Additional support came from the Bertha Gxowa Care Centre, the CPF, the Germiston Women’s Network and the Primrose and Germiston Youth Desks.
“We empower youth to report crimes, encourage collaboration with law enforcement, and provide resources to aid their reporting,” Mokgawa added.
“We look forward to our Mandela Day projects, which we will announce in due course.”
The successful event demonstrated the power of community and sports in fostering a safer and more engaged youth population.