Police in the West Rand and its Social Crime Prevention unit along with various stakeholders in the district launched the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign last Friday, November 25.
The campaign was launched at the Badirile sports grounds in Brandvlei and was also held in commemoration of World Aids Day, observed annually on December 1.
The purpose of the event was to sensitise residents regarding community safety during the festive season and what precautionary measures to be taken in keeping stokvel money safe. West Rand District Police Spokesperson Captain Eddie Boboko added the purpose was to also promote safety when visiting liquor outlets.
“We also informed residents on ways to ensure their safety when they leave their premises unguarded during the festive season and addressed issues around hitchhiking and hijacking as well as gender-based violence (GBV), human trafficking and the abuse of drugs and alcohol among other social ills,” said Captain Bokobo.
The Department of Health then also addressed those present regarding the support system rendered to both affected and infected people living with HIV/Aids.
A candlelight service was also held in honour of GBV victims and survivors as well as those who passed on through HIV/Aids.
About 574 community members were reached and a total of 1 000 pamphlets were issued which contained information regarding the social ills.
