Devon SAPS held a Men’s Conversational Movement Imbizo on November 24.
The theme was gender-based violence, crime, substance abuse and health awareness.
It was aimed specifically at men to break the silence on GBV in the communities.
Devon SAPS was joined by Social Crime Communications, Youth Desk, Victim Empowerment Center, Department of Social Development, Department of Health, Sanca, FBO, GBV and Man Sector Forum at the Impumelelo Community Hall.
The attendees were reminded that there are programmes in place to help and counsel anyone who needs assistance on the issue.
Warrant Officer S’bongile Ndlela discussed contact crimes and priority GBV crimes (burglary, theft, rape, assault and hijackings) through engagement and emphasis on safety tips.
Ndlela encouraged all men to come to the victim-friendly room and assured them that no police officer will laugh at any man who is going through abuse or domestic violence.
Ndlela said: “GBV has tormented the community for a long time and it is now time to break the cycle. Break the silence of abuse and report incidents immediately. The prevalence of GBV crimes is a major problem and everyone should be playing a role in combating the scourge.”
