CPF performs searches to ensure drug-free schools
The shocking truth is that everything in the life of teenagers who take drugs, are affected. Academically they find it very hard, if not at times impossible to cope, and on top of that, their health is detrimentally affected or even fatal.
BARBERTON – As with most things in life, knowledge is power, and, as such, education with regard to drug abuse should start at a very young age. Sadly, this problem has already reared its ugly head in many South African schools, and Mpumalanga is no exception.
The shocking truth is that everything in the life of teenagers who take drugs, are affected. Academically they find it very hard, if not at times impossible to cope, and on top of that, their health is detrimentally affected or even fatal.
The ideal would be to reach all learners as soon as they start school. Instructors should be made available to educate them about the risks, before they get to an age where group and social pressure cause them to experiment with such substances. The fact that this is not happening and drugs are already increasingly present among learners, the community policing forum (CPF) of Barberton recently decided to do their bit.
On Thursday they paid a visit to Fairview Primary School. After being approached by the principal of the school, Ms Skosana, they showed up, without warning to the learners. The CFP members proceeded to search the school, classroom and learners for drugs. Although they didn’t find anything that day, a learner who had taken some money from a teacher, was exposed when his fellow pupils came forward and blew the whistle on him, not knowing why the police were there.
The CPF used Fairview Primary as a kind of practice run, as they plan on taking the schools by storm in the near future. Their primary goal is not only to expose the ones dealing with and using drugs, but to educate, provide guidelines and talk to the learners about safety in general and how to behave during emergency situations.
Principals who might be interested in having a similar search conducted by the CPF, should contact the chairman, James Fakude on 072-098-1968 or member Jannie Visser on 083-250-6650. “We are the link between the community and police. Make use of us,” said Visser.
They can also be contacted by anyone who wishes to remain anonymous and might have some information about drug dealings.
