Taking the lead and standing up against violence
The Putfontein Police Station hosted an event related to violence against women on September 13.
Stakeholders such as African Bank, the EMPD, Social Crime Prevention Unit, the Daveyton Court, Ekurhuleni Central Cluster and community safety attended.
The event was opened with prayer led by Capt Lilana Kasper, who shared a biblical story about a woman who was abused and killed by her husband.
“Women and children are being raped everywhere,” she said.
“Who is willing to speak up?
“We shouldn’t suffer in silence.”
According to Kasper, abusing women has become a norm in our society and we need to be the agents of change.
Station commander Lieut Col Wellington Mathiane welcomed guests to the station.
In his address he said he wanted to lead by example and hopefully other police stations would follow suit.
“Domestic violence has a negative impact on the community,” he said.
Mathiane asked the men, “Men, where are your children?”
He was referring to the number of street children.
“We need to support women not fight them,” he said.
The women pledged to fight against violence against women.
They lit a candle as a sign of hope and to encourage the victims to no longer be victims.
“You are now free, you are a victor and not a victim,” said Const Lorato Dire.
The candle-lighting session was followed by the release of white balloons as a symbol of letting go of the pain.
According to Mathiane, the main aim was to have a healthy and safe community.
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