Police put smiles on many faces

The intention behind the show was for the annual celebration of Mandela Day, and Constable Matome Tlamela, head of communications at the station, said they were hoping to leave a lasting message.

“The issues that are addressed today are about children’s and the elderly’s safety,” she said. “We are hoping that the community will join hands in dedicating 67 minutes of their time to take action and make Midrand a better place.”

Mr ADT, the fun-loving and safety-conscious Darin McDowell from the security company, also put on a show at the station to the delight of all the children gathered, and even some adults.

“[Children] do not keep quiet when somebody touches you or hurts you in your special place, tell mommy or daddy,” he said as he addressed issues pertaining to sexual abuse of children.

The sentiment was further elaborated by the police’s Captain William Chauke who said, “If an adult keeps quiet about the abuse of a child, he or she will be criminally charged because [according to the law] they must report it and not protect the perpetrator.”

McDowell also showcased various ways in which children could protect themselves against crime such as stranger awareness, the use of a panic button, and calling their security company and the police.

It was not all safety education though. Two elderly people helped to cut the Mandela birthday cake and a delicious lunch of bryani was served.

“We always look forward to this day, and we would like to thank the police for their invite,” said Cyril Chetty of the Midrand Senior Citizens Club. Chetty also sang an emotional rendition of The giant has fallen in honour of Mandela.

Tlamela thanked all the sponsors that helped them see the day become a reality. “Whisenhofe Cafe, Carlswald Spar, Food for Life, the community police forum, Bread of Life and BOS company all sponsored us in different ways,” she said.

Filler: Share your 67 minutes initiative with us on Midrand Reporter’s Facebook page