SEBOKENG.- The Sebokeng SAPS Social Crime Prevention Unit together with the Department of Health, the ⁠Department of Social Development, ⁠Badumetse Batho Centre, and the ⁠Johandeo Wellness and Development Centre embarked on a campaign in Polokong, Sebokeng on Wednesday.

The campaign was aimed at raising awareness about the brutal killing and harassment of the LGBTQI+ community.

Constable Phuthi Senwamadi, who is an ambassador of the LGBTQI+ community at Sebokeng SAPS, encouraged the LGBTQI+ community to report any ill treatment they may get from the police to the Station Management.

She added that as a detective, she was assigned to investigate cases where the LGBTQI+ community were victims of ill treatment and often times they don’t pursue the cases, thinking that the police do not investigate their cases. She therefore pleaded with the community to work together with the police to ensure that those who commit any crime against them are arrested and prosecuted.

On the other hand, Sergeant Maria Molefi pleaded with community members to accommodate every person and understand the LGBTQI+ community.

Police spokesperson, Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane said, “She added that they must respect them, treat them with dignity and concluded that SAPS will always ensure that they provide a safe and secure environment for all people of RSA including the LGBTQI+ community. The Station Commander’s contact details were given to the attendees.”

Other stakeholders also presented the services they provide to the LGBTQI+ community. The police are pleading with the LGBTQI+ community to report any crime that was or is committed against them.

“Constable Phuti Senwamadi is a committed LGBTQI+ ambassador and urges community members not to hesitate to ask for her assistance,” Mokhachane ended.