The South African Police Service in the Free State, in partnership with the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and Youth Crime Prevention structures, conducted a community engagement session in the Parys and Tumahole policing precincts.

The first phase of the program commenced in Parys, after which the team proceeded to Tumahole to continue engaging with community members.

The engagement was attended by Colonel Gelderblom from Free State Proactive Policing Unit, Colonel Kruger, Station Commander of Zamdela, representing Fezile Dabi District, and the Free State CPF Chairperson, Mr Sebeela

The primary objective of the engagement was to interact with community members on crime and safety issues affecting their communities while encouraging them to contribute practical solutions and recommendations to strengthen policing and crime prevention efforts.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Sebeela outlined the purpose of the engagement and provided residents with an opportunity to raise their concerns and frustrations regarding crime and safety in their communities. He encouraged community members to work closely with SAPS by sharing information that could assist in preventing and combating crime.

Mr Sebeela identified substance abuse as one of the key drivers of crime and other social challenges. He urged residents to report houses used for the sale of drugs and the operation of illegal shebeens, emphasizing that substance abuse often contributes to incidents of domestic violence and other violent crimes.

He further encouraged young people to participate in sport and other constructive recreational activities, noting that such involvement helps steer them away from crime and substance abuse while developing them into responsible and positive role models within their communities.

In addition, Mr Sebeela encouraged women to make informed decisions that promote their personal safety and well-being, including avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and situations that may increase their vulnerability to crime or exploitation.

As part of the awareness campaign, approximately 150 crime prevention pamphlets were distributed to community members. The pamphlets covered important topics including domestic violence, substance abuse, theft of copper cable, and general safety tips, providing residents with practical information on preventing crime and accessing support services.

Community members actively participated throughout the engagement by sharing their experiences, raising concerns, and providing valuable input on policing challenges affecting their areas.