| The implementation of a week long proactive policing youth programme in OR Tambo District receives positive criticism | |
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| Date Published: | 2023/07/16 |
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Media Statement MTHATHA - Proactive policing is an approach of actively preventing crime through strategies such as increased patrols, high density operations, target driven operations and community engagement as opposed to simply responding to crimes after they occur. The youth of Ngqeleni and other surrounding areas participated in a week long Provincial programme with several activities that were held in the OR Tambo district last week. The proactive programme kick-started with the Provincial Junior Commissioner’s competition with debates held by the youth. This event was held at the municipal hall on Tuesday, 11 July 2023 in Mthatha. The Junior Commissioner’s competition is held every two years, where learners from the eight districts of the province are given the opportunity to input and voice their concerns relating to crime. The project has been running successfully for the past eight (08) years, and targets learners from Grade 8 to 10. The winners are expected to serve as Commissioners in their respective categories for a period of two years. The objectives are promote and nurture leadership development and character building among young people as well as to recognise young people as ambassadors in the Safer School Programme. Junior Commissioners are expected to play a pivotal role in proactive policing and to inspire and educate the youth from choosing a life of crime to reaching new heights and becoming pillars in their society. Siphelele Zwane won the competition, and was crowned as the new Provincial Junior Commissioner. Siphelele is from Phakamisa Senior Secondary School in Ngcobo under Chris Hani District. There were other learners, who were selected for other different portfolios as follows: Deputy Provincial Junior Commissioner for Policing, Lihlombe Ncapayi (Buffalo City Metro District) Deputy Provincial Junior Commissioner for Crime Detection, Bulela Mtsi (Alfred Nzo District) Deputy Provincial Junior Commissioner for Support Services, Songeziwe Dubula (Amathole District) Deputy Provincial Junior Commissioner for Crime Intelligence, Liyema Cwane (OR Tambo District) On Wednesday, 12 July 2023, a dialogue on Conversations with Young Men was held. The dialogue encouraged young men to share ideas and to highlight some of the concerns and frustrations affecting the young men of today. There was also a presentation on the Integrated Youth Crime Prevention Strategy and the National Action Plan. The last two days, were fun activities whereby a sports tournament was hosted in Ngqeleni, where several local clubs participated in soccer (men) and netball (women). Each police station in the district was afforded an opportunity to select a local club that will represent the station in the tournament. Ngqeleni emerged the winners in both the soccer and netball. Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nonthetheleli Mene concluded the week by highlighting that the proactive approach to policing emphasises early intervention and prevention aiming to address the root causes of crime and reduce crime in the long term. "The Junior Commissioner’s competition gives young people an opportunity to be heard and taken seriously. These activities should be ongoing, as they are key towards ending the use of illicit drugs and alcohol by young people. Engaging and empowering young people in crime prevention initiatives not only helps create safer communities but also provides opportunities for their personal and social development,” added Lt Gen Mene. Ends
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