Etwatwa SAPS holds inter-faith awareness day
Community members were urged to work with social workers to tackle social issues
The Etwatwa SAPS held an inter-faith awareness day and prayer against social issues affecting the community on May 26 at St. Matthias Anglican Church in Etwatwa.
The awareness session aimed to address issues of domestic violence, gender-based violence and drugs.
Representatives from SANCA, iThemba Rape and Trauma Support Centre, pastors and community members attended the event.
Etwatwa station commander Colonel Molatelo Maoto said these issues are associated with crime, hence they decided to host the awareness session to enlighten communities on what to do when faced with these issues.
During the event, Merriam Mkhobo, a social worker from iThemba rape and trauma urged community members to speak out if they come across such situations.
“We believe that addressing this issue in the church will be more effective because gender-based violence and domestic violence affect everyone.
“Do not wait for the problem to escalate before seeking help,” said Mkhobo.
Another speaker, Zodwa Mdlalose from SANCA, said drugs are a problem in communities and the only way to combat the problem is for a community to unite.
“Drug users steal and not only frustrates parents but also the community because crime is perpetuated by drugs.
“We urge the community to work with us and put an end to this.
“If your child or someone you know is using drugs, please refer them to us so that they can go to rehab,” she said.
Mdlalose said they don’t only rehabilitate drug users but offer skills development.
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