Sports and support take centre stage at SAPS Youth Day event

Brakpan SAPS on Youth Day headed an initiative aimed at attracting the youth through sporting activities with the expectancy of removing them from the streets.

“We want to get them away from crime, drugs, teenage pregnancy, homelessness, and prostitution,” said Brakpan SAPS Sector 1 manager and communications officer, Constable Audrey Buthelezi.

The SAPS collaborated with the EMPD, CPF, Crime Prevention Wardens, and Secure Tech Security to ensure a safe event for the youth. The event was held at Charl Baard Stadium.

Warrant Officer Eddie Botes opened the event with a devotion. The organisers then took the youth to the boxing hall, where members of the Brakpan Boxing Club demonstrated and explained the sport.

Other interactive demonstrations also took place, allowing the youth to participate. AFKAK South Africa demonstrated self-defence and karate, while emphasising the importance of a clear mind and calm demeanour.

The Brakpan Sports Association (BSA) hosted their football tournament play-offs, which began in the morning and continued until sunset, when the winners were announced.

Cyclean Brakpan, a youth-driven initiative, held a bicycle demonstration and encouraged the attending youth to become members. Youth entrepreneurs set up stalls selling snacks, drinks, and wors rolls. Some also sold handmade crafts.

Brakpan police extended their gratitude to AfriForum for donating the football medals; to the Jessy-Lee and Kie band for providing live entertainment and sound support throughout the day; and to Loretta Chiloane from Harcourts Real Estate for donating bottled water, drinks, and snacks for the youngsters.

Vispol commander Colonel Robert Makopo applauded the organisers and all stakeholders for their participation.

“The youth at the stadium were off the streets for the day and prevented from engaging in illicit activities. As SAPS, we still say: a child in sport is a child out of court,” Makopo said.