Police induct Grade 8 learners in annual programme
Various testing devices used to confirm underage drinking, intoxication, or use of illicit drugs were shown at the presentation.
BRIGHTON Beach police launched the station’s annual Grade 8 crime induction programme on Friday, 12 February.
Created and facilitated by the station’s communication officer, Captain Louise le Roux, the programme proactively aims to ensure safer schools. It further assists Grade 8 learners with the transition from senior primary to high school.
“This transition may cause increased levels of anxiety to learners as a result of having to cope with a new educational environment, teachers, rules, and the increased tempo and work volume,” said Le Roux.
Learners were given a presentation that covered aspects that included children in conflict with the law or the Child Justice Act and the Dangerous Weapons Act.
They were also informed that at the age of 10, a child has the criminal capacity, and therefore has the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, he or she can be arrested when committing a crime.
“Learners were informed of the procedures that are followed during an internal tribunal and the arrest of a child when they have committed a crime on the school premises.”
“We also cautioned them on items not permitted to be carried on their person or concealed within their belongings such as weapons including toy ones, prescription medication, metal utensils, glass objects or drugs,” she added.
Various testing devices used to confirm underage drinking, intoxication, or use of illicit drugs were also shown at the presentation. Learners were also cautioned about the use of mobile devices on the school premises.
According to Le Roux, these can be crime generators to co-ordinate assaults on fellow learners or for the possession and distribution of pornographic material.
Learners who attended the programme received a youth at risk educational brochure. The brochures were distributed in collaboration with the station’s liquor officer W/O Theo van Noordwyk.
“We acknowledge educational institutes for affording the SAPS a platform to host this annual project and for their continuous support,” said Le Roux.
