eMbalenhle SAPS urge seniors to report abuse

To honour Human Rights Month, the eMbalenhle SAPS Social Crime Prevention Unit held an awareness campaign at the eMbalenhle Aged Group Centre on March 19.

Officers taught the seniors about the elderly’s rights and how to protect themselves from crime and abuse. According to Constable Zanele Masina, criminals frequently target elderly citizens, especially on pension payout days at malls and shopping centres.

“When it’s time for the elderly to collect their pensions, we receive many reports of criminals robbing them of their cash,” said Masina.

Criminals pretend to offer help at ATMs, taking advantage of the elderly’s trust, so the SAPS urges them to withdraw cash inside large retailers rather than at ATMs.

Masina also said many elderly individuals suffer abuse from their family or community but are too afraid to report it.

“Some elderly citizens are abused by their grandchildren, yet they fear speaking out. Our goal is to reach as many senior citizens as possible and inform them how to report abuse,” Masina stated.

Management at the eMbalenhle Police Station has decided that elderly citizens will not have to stand in long queues but will receive priority attention to improve service delivery.

The SAPS also encourage seniors to report all forms of abuse and seek help if needed. Masina stressed that every senior has the right to live free from abuse and should speak out when facing mistreatment.

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