SAPS spread GBV knowledge in northern clinics

Stop Gender-based Violence – This is the call made by the SAPS during a campaign at the Adelaide Tambo Clinic on Old Warmbaths Road, in Pyramid, north of Pretoria, on July 20.

The Pretoria North Police, in partnership with the local CPF, joined forces to spread awareness about the plague of domestic violence and gender-based violence (GBV) in local communities.

The policing sectors said that by bringing the conversation directly to the community, especially a local clinic, they would be able to address a large number of victims, including perpetrators.

SAPS social crime prevention co-ordinator Sergeant Tumisang Moloto said they were supported by CPF members, who lead a community-focused initiative aimed at educating the public on the dangers of domestic violence, the steps to report it, and how to access available support services.

The event formed part of the station’s broader commitment to social crime prevention, targeting vulnerable communities where domestic violence is often underreported due to fear, stigma or lack of access to information.

Clinic-goers were sensitised about the processes of reporting abuse, the role of the police, and the involvement of non-profit organisations (NPOs) that assist victims.

Moloto said that many victims remain silent because they do not know where to go or who to trust.

“We want people to know that there is help. The police are not just here to arrest offenders; we are also here to protect and support victims.

“This is why we are working closely with clinics and NPOs to make information more accessible,” said Moloto.

Residents were also encouraged to get involved in community safety structures such as the CPF, local patrollers, and neighbourhood watches.

These grassroots networks, according to Moloto, play a key role in creating safer communities by promoting vigilance, reporting suspicious activities, and supporting crime prevention campaigns.

Sunday’s awareness campaign follows a week of community outreach led by Pretoria North SAPS and the CPF.

While Mandela Day has come and gone, the spirit of service lives on through their joint efforts to support and uplift the community, especially those often overlooked.

On Mandela Day, the SAPS and CPF members visited both the Jack Hindon and Adelaide Tambo clinics, not only to serve soup to patients and passers-by, but to use the opportunity to interact with the public and reinforce messages of unity, safety, and kindness.

Members of the team prepared the food themselves and distributed it with smiles and encouraging words, a small act that left a lasting impression on many.

For local resident and mother of two, Thandi Mabuza, the campaign could not have come at a better time.

“People are struggling. There is violence in homes, and many don’t know where to turn. To see the police going to healthcare facilities, not just for arrests but to help and to talk, it shows they care,” she said.

The Pretoria North SAPS plans to continue working hand-in-hand with community structures to address domestic violence and broader crime-related issues.

Moloto said future campaigns are expected to focus on schools, youth groups, and informal settlements, where social challenges often fuel criminal behaviour.

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