THERE’S been an increase in drink-spiking incidents within the Durban North precinct. During these incidents, the victims, of both genders, are either robbed, assaulted or raped.

This information comes from the North Durban Victim Support Group which wants to raise awareness and share safety tips with the community amid the 16 Days of Activism Campaign that began on November 25.

Also read: Durban North SAPS community imbizo opens dialogues

The group provides counselling and advice to victims of rape, domestic violence, sexual assault, crime and other traumatic incidents and is based at the Durban North Police Station.

“We have noticed an increase of spiking incidents recently. The victims are then robbed, assaulted or raped. These incidents happen at restaurants and sometimes at house parties where people who are friends of friends meet.

Sometimes, we feel that we are safe being at a party in the home of someone we know, but there are also other people invited whom we may not know. It’s important to never let your guard down,” said Sadiyya Haffajee, a team leader of the group.

The LGBTQI+ are also targeted.

“However you identify, nobody deserves to be assaulted and be placed in a vulnerable position when going out to enjoy themselves,” added Haffejee.

Haffejee also stressed the importance of the public being wary of someone who may be in distress, especially as the matric rage events start.

“Youngsters will be celebrating after finishing their last exams and will be out partying with friends. If you see a teen boy or girl who seems to be in trouble, please stop and ask if they need help. Don’t just turn a blind eye. It takes a village to raise a child,” she said.

Speaking about the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, Sergeant Nonhlanhla Shozi said that for the SAPS and the support group, it is a 365-day campaign as their fight against crime and gender-based violence is ongoing.

“We continue to be present in public spaces, such as shopping malls and busy spaces within the area. Police will be monitoring matric-rage-goers very closely, and unruly behaviour will not be accepted. We also encourage parents to make it a point of knowing where their children are,” she said.

If you need assistance, contact the group on 066 483 8589.

Here are eight tips for women to stay safe during a night out :

1. Buddy system
Keep account of your friends’ whereabouts and ensure that they get home safely.

2. Trust your instincts
If someone is making you feel unsafe in your surroundings, let your friends know and move locations.

3. Drinking safely
Do not leave your drink unattended. If someone does insist on purchasing you a drink, make sure you are with them at the bar, watching the drink being poured.

4. Detect drugging
You will only know that you have been drugged by how you are feeling. If you or a friend feel as though you have been drugged, go to the hospital immediately. If you or your friends notice a change in behaviour in each other, get help.

5. Drink responsibly
Drinking must be done in a responsible manner. Eat before consuming alcohol, drink plenty of water throughout the night and pace yourself.

6. Safety apps
Due to the rise in social media apps, it has never been easier to stay connected to those you trust while out:
• bsafe
• MySOS SA

7. Social media posts
Don’t post videos or images while you are at a location. Wait to post once you have left the venue.

8. Use car-ride services with caution:
Always share your ride with a friend that you trust and ensure that the number plate, name and picture of the driver matches the one on the app. Check the boot and make sure that the child lock is not on. Pay attention to the route.

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here