The Gauteng Department of Social Development hosted a social crime-prevention awareness campaign at the Chief Mogale Hall in Kagiso on Wednesday, September 7.

They informed the community that they were mandated by several forms of legislation to intervene in matters involving crime and to provide early intervention and prevention services.

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Angie Mahluale, a regional social worker, told community members that crime in communities were not only committed by adults, but sometimes children as well. She said there are various factors that lead to young people’s involvement in crime.

These factors may include:
• Being raised in a family or society where crime is ‘normal’. Children learn by what they see
• Inadequate parenting – either due to parents not being present or they themselves being involved with crime and drugs
• Dropping out of school – Being idle often leads to mischief
• Being influenced by peer
• Lacking good role models, children sometimes idolise people such as drug lords with lavish lifestyles
• Using drugs – There is a close link between drug abuse, violence and crimes such as assault, rape and murder
• Parents being unable to communicate with their children
• Parents being unable to control or discipline their children

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We also have a role to protect and provide support to those affected by crime. DSD plays a significant role in ensuring that those who have committed crime, especially children get services that can contribute to their rehabilitation,” said Mahlaule.