The Kingsley SAPS Community Policing Forum hosted its inaugural fun run on Saturday, an event that brought residents together in a show of unity and collaboration.
The initiative was divided into two sessions. In the morning, participants took part in a run from Blood River to Kingsley police station. Runners were grouped by age: the yellow group (10–20 years), the purple group (20–49 years), and the red group (50 years and above).
The afternoon session shifted to a formal gathering at Kingsley police station, where community leaders and officials addressed the crowd.
Inkosi Mbatha, the local chief, welcomed the attendees to his land. Community leader Ms Mthembu, also known as Xamu Kavinjelwa, highlighted the purpose of the gathering, saying,
“The main purpose of our gathering is to unite elders and children. We must teach our children unity at all times. It is also important for the community to build a strong relationship with the SAPS. We need to work hand in hand to identify and solve problems within our communities.”
Mthembu further encouraged young people to cherish and protect their homes, commenting that,
“No matter how your home looks in your eyes, as a young person you have a duty to protect and take care of it – protect your legacy.”
Thembinkosi Madela, acting manager at the Utrecht Agricultural Office, offered words of encouragement to parents, stressing the importance of leading by example.
“Our children look up to us. As parents, we have a duty to guide them and ensure they do not get left behind. Teach them everything you can while they are still young, so they can learn to survive with or without you,” he said.
Mr Zungu from the Department of Correctional Services delivered a sobering message, warning the youth about the dangers of crime and substance abuse. “Prison is not a place – it is hell itself. Young people should stay away from drugs and criminal activities, because they only lead to destruction,” he cautioned, sharing insights into the harsh realities of prison life.
The day ended on a celebratory note, with all the participants receiving medals for their efforts.

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The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.