Community engagements are crucial in the SAPS because they have a direct impact on crime prevention, build safer communities, strengthen service delivery and address the root causes of crime.

It is the strength of the bond between the police and the people they serve that makes the community truly safe.

In line with this, Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi attended two separate Women’s Month celebrations last week as a guest speaker at both events.

Buthelezi addressed women at Rata Social Services about resilience and endurance.

The event was attended by local women, and during her speech, Buthelezi reminded the audience of their qualities as women and encouraged them to associate themselves with only positivity in their lives.

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The women were told to ignite their enduring and resilient powers, empower one another, and build stronger and more united communities.

For the second engagement, Buthelezi was accompanied by interim Vispol commander Lieutenant Colonel Pearl Van Staad and Siyabangena patrollers Martha Mayisa and Pulane Qhina.

The event was held at Thabong Conference Centre and organised by Ekurhuleni East TVET College for its women employees from all branches within Ekurhuleni.

Buthelezi addressed the audience on gender-based violence, domestic violence, childhood trauma and safety.

After explaining what GBV is and how the women can protect themselves against it, Buthelezi encouraged the women not to be afraid to start over and to strive to be self-sufficient and financially independent so they would not be forced to stay in abusive and toxic relationships.

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She strongly condemned the norm of opening cases related to GBV and domestic violence only to withdraw them later.

Buthelezi further highlighted the services of the Victim Friendly Room at police stations.

“The vision of the police and the community standing together, not just in times of crisis but every day, starts with community engagements,” said Buthelezi.

“Community engagement is a multifaceted approach involving both positive contributions to safety and security and significant challenges that diminish effectiveness and community trust.”

“Brakpan SAPS focuses on rebuilding trust with communities, ensuring accountability, improving responsiveness and fostering more robust community partnerships.”