Police support 16 days of activism campaign
“Children should be taught at an early age that their bodies are private and they have a right to say no.”
Tshwane central police are pulling out all the stops to support the 16 days of activism campaign.
They hosted two events to create awareness of, and garner support for, no violence against women and children during which speakers addressed the audience on domestic violence, the impact of drugs and alcohol abuse, gender-violence and safety tactics.
The first event held at the weekend in Nellmapius was attended by about 200 residents.
The campaign – commemorated annually from 25 November to 10 December globally – was also aimed at campaigning for the protection of victims of gender violence, said Major-General Yvonne Botsheleng.
Botsheleng said abuse should not be tolerated, especially against vulnerable members of society such as women, children and people living with disabilities.
She said the SAPS were responsible for protecting the vulnerable, but could not be in every household and behind every closed door.
“Partners, stakeholders and communities must help the SAPS by reporting abuse, 365 days a year and not only during these 16 days.”
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Children should be taught from an early age that their bodies were private and they had a right to say no, and to reach out for help when necessary, she said.
“Parents, guardians and caregivers must know where the children in their care are at all times and whenever possible, to keep an eye on them.”
The second event, at Brooklyn Mall on Tuesday morning, focused on raising the awareness of the crimes against the elderly and the law in this regard.
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The more than 100 senior citizens who attended were also treated to some Christmas gifts as well as a performance of classic Christmas carols and golden oldies by the Tshwane SAPS band.
They were also given information on how to protect themselves over the festive season.
The police said more such awareness campaigns and operations would be held.
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