Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi, Detective Warrant Officer Fikile Zitha from the Brakpan Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Unit (FCS), GBV coordinator Constable Lesego Mafa, Youth Crime Prevention Desk members and CPF Sector One chairperson Simon Mabuse attended a networking event organised and hosted by Goldwagen Carnival on March 28.

“Although the objective of the event was different compared to the SAPS in the sense that the businesses wanted to strengthen relations with other businesses, the SAPS aimed at establishing new relationships and to use the opportunity to address GBV&F,” said Buthelezi.

“Every stakeholder is important to the SAPS, including businesses. Participation of stakeholders and their support is crucial to the success of policing efforts.

“Including local businesses in SAPS’ operations and strategies is significant to enhance public safety and security.”

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Buthelezi highlighted that gender-based violence is a critically growing concern driven by social issues.

“It is a pervasive issue that affects individuals, families, and communities worldwide,” she said.

“The impact of GBV is not limited to personal spheres, but it extends to workplaces. GBV&F has significant implications for businesses and organisations, particularly in terms of productivity, which will eventually affect profitability.”

Buthelezi explained that Brakpan police conducted the awareness to educate the businesses about GBV and to encourage reporting.

The SAPS members handed out GBV pamphlets and interacted with walk-in clients and the different business stalls.

The host appreciated the SAPS’ presence, and the SAPS thanked the hosts for the opportunity provided.