Sport unites Katlehong community against crime

Takers Football Club (TFC) partnered with Katlehong North SAPS and various stakeholders to conduct a clean-up campaign as part of the community building initiative at Hlahatse Section, Katlehong, on June 18.

Stakeholders like Boksburg Correctional Services, parolees, and Ward 49 community members and players formed part of this community-building initiative.

They got their hands dirty as they cleaned the MNET Ground at Hlahatsi section Katlehong.

This follows TFC’s founder and chairperson Mveliso Ntlemeza raising concerns about the safety of players and young children in the community.

According to Ntlemeza, they are trying to prevent children from being exposed to crime, and drug- and alcohol abuse.

He said those who formed part of the initiative have written their names in the great books of victory, unity and peace.

“MNET Ground has never received so much attention in a very long time, and for the first time, everyone did it themselves.

He said it would not have been a success if Sergeant Mmadika Motaung opened the door when we approached Katlehong North SAPS about issues affecting community safety.

“Our communities need such individuals who go out of their way to reach out where help is needed.

“Musa Mmadiki of the CPF was one of the most prominent organisers who tirelessly organised this event.”

Ntlemeza said they will not wait for things to happen as it is time they stand up and do it themselves.

“As the community of Ward 49, we would like to request the municipal offices to add a maintenance mandate on their programme for Hlahatsi MNET Ground,” he said.

He thanked the Department of Correctional Services for their involvement in the clean-up programme.

“We wish the ex-convicts a new chapter in their lives as well as for them to bring change in our communities and continue educating the nation about how crime and other unlawful activities can negatively impact your life,” he concluded.

Katlehong North SAPS crime prevention coordinator Sergeant Mmadika Motaung said the initiative will be a sustainable solution to fight crime in the area.

She said when the community is involved there is room for more initiatives instead of leaving everything to the police.

She said the area experienced murder and robbery crimes and serves as a hiding spot for children who use drugs.

“We started with grass cutting at the soccer ground because the high grass was preventing patrollers from seeing what is happening,” said Motaung.

“We are in communication with other neighbourhood watches to support the initiative and also patrol the area during hours when the crimes usually occur,” she continued.

“We have to own our spaces that are owned by criminals and drug users.”