The women in blue in Sedibeng District conducted a Basadi Operation in the De Deur policing precinct, focusing on gender-based violence (GBV) awareness and community engagement to demonstrate the community’s proactive stance against GBV.

The operation began with a formal parade, opened by a solemn prayer led by Constable Nompumemelo Zazini, followed by the reading of the SAPS Code of Conduct. Members from various stations across the district joined in, accompanied by the Midvaal Traffic Department, Department of Community Safety, Community Policing Forum (CPF), local patrollers, and several NGOs, demonstrating a united front against GBV.

Addressing the parade, De Deur SAPS Acting Station Commander Lieutenant Colonel Bertie Van der Ryst highlighted the alarming prevalence of GBV in the community. He urged officers and partners to remain committed to educating residents about prevention strategies and available support structures.

According to police spokesperson Constable Mampho Mahlomola, the operation had a significant impact on promoting safety and awareness in the community.

“Four undocumented persons from Malawi were arrested, one illegal shebeen was discovered and closed, two suspects were arrested for possession of illicit drugs, and traffic fines amounting to R9 100 were issued,” said Mahlomola.

Following the operation, a door-to-door awareness campaign was conducted in De Deur. Approximately 600 pamphlets containing important information were distributed to residents as part of the ongoing effort to empower communities with knowledge and resources about GBV.