Linden police show they care for children
BLAIRGOWRIE – Primary school invites police for a chat with the children.
The Linden Police Station’s Community Outreach Unit visited Blairgowrie Primary School on 14 June. Constable Takalani Matumba and Warrant Officer Jaco Pieterse spoke to the children about stealing and bullying. Although the weather was chilly, the children were excited to listen to the officers and participated enthusiastically as they also voiced their troubles.
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“My job is to take care of the young ones and to show that we care about their futures,” said Matumba.
Front: Jayden Padayachy, Zama Pantshwa, Ituah Khumalo, Erin van der Vorst and Morgan Bruwer hold up the police documents with their fingerprints on.
“Theft is a problem and children must be aware that if they do so, they are spoiling their future. One must never take something that does not belong to them. If children have forgotten their lunch or stationery at home, they must let the teacher know so they can assist. If children see another one stealing, they must also alert their teacher.”
During the session, Pieterse demonstrated to the children what happens when they arrest criminals such as taking their fingerprints and a few children who volunteered had their fingerprints printed on a formal document.
Matumba also spoke about children bullying and teasing each other at school, and this gave a chance for the children to air their grievances about bullying. The children also spoke about how to avoid being bullied and to tell a teacher immediately when such an act occurs.
School principal Pat Oosthuizen said they have a good relationship with Linden police and they invite them every year to have a chat with the children. “Our school has a good anti-theft and bully policy but it is always good to involve the police as they are part of our community.”
Call Linden Police Station on 011 888 9299.
