Drugs and the evil addiction: Cops and stakeholders speak to community

The Hekpoort police and Westview Clinic recently visited their community to raise awareness about drug abuse.

They were joined in the Hekpoort Community Hall on Monday, June 6 by representatives from the Department of Health, Mogale City Social Development, Government Communications and Information Systems, Victim Empowerment Centre, Tshwaraganang Home-based Care, Die Poort After Care & Drop In Centre, Teddy Bear Clinic, and Community Policing Forum.

Sergeant Gloria Maswanganye from the Hekpoort police said June is Youth Month, and that drugs or substance abuse is associated with both violence and crime.

Also read: Addiction signs to look out for

The teams outlined the problematic patterns of substances used among the youth and tried to educate the public and the youth in particular about their dangers.

“All stakeholders explained the services they offer to the community, and how the community clinic operates. Mogale City Social Development explained the services they render to the community.”

The Teddy Bear Clinic, Tshwaraganang Home-based Care, and Die Poort After Care & Drop In Centre told the community about the programmes they offer to the youth; and the police and Victim Empowerment Centre explained the duties of the police officials when assisting a victim of crime, including how to apply for a protection order. They also gave those present information about the purpose of the victim-friendly room. The Westview Clinic members took them through their rehabilitation process.

“They pleaded with the community of Hekpoort to make use of their facilities as all their services are provided free of charge. They also extended their gratitude to the members of the community, community policing forum and all stakeholders for contributing to the success of creating awareness.”