Crime harms many communities across the West Rand and many people, as well as organisations, work relentlessly to ensure they are safe.
It is no different in the Leratong Village informational settlement where community members want to play an active role.
A recent awareness programme was exceptionally noteworthy since religious organisation and leaders were among those calling for a safer community.
Itumeleng Modisaemang, who was among the speakers at the programme, addressed the severity of crime in the village and how important it was for residents to take part in initiatives.
“To get crime under control and address the challenges we face as a community, we need to work with our patrollers. We ask for more police visibility that will enhance the situation as well. We can’t be living in fear and danger not knowing who is next to die or whose children are going to be raped and killed. We need each other as a community to fight these challenges,” Itumeleng said.
Community members also added that the issues affecting the village go beyond just crime prevention but also appeal to members of the community to be more responsible and to deal with other issues that run rife such as alcoholism, teenage pregnancy and substance abuse.
Boitsoko Motswenyane, who attended the event, expressed her concerns about the various issues affecting the community.
“We appreciate the crime prevention awareness initiative by community leaders. It’s a step in the right direction but other issues need to be addressed such as unemployment and education. Many children in the area find themselves consumed by drugs and alcohol because there are not enough institutions around to put them in the right direction. More must be done to prioritise the youth,” Boitsoko said passionately.
There were over 100 people who attended the event, which they hope will have a huge impact going forward.
