SEBOKENG.- Residents of Zone 3 have joined forces to establish a Community Watch.

This is after they became increasingly concerned about crime in their neighbourhood.

Through regular patrols, community members are working together to protect their families, homes and local businesses.

During patrols, many weapons and drug paraphernalia have been retrieved from suspects.  The partols has also exposed them to a deeper social challenge affecting the area: drug addiction.

According to one of the Community Watch members, patrol teams frequently encounter people who are struggling with substance addiction.

Referrals alone may not be enough to address the seriousness and scale of the problem.

Although the watch was established to help fight crime, its members do not want to focus only on punishment as they also want to help local addicts overcome addiction and rebuild their lives.

“Whenever possible, individuals are referred to the Department of Social Development for professional assistance,” the community members said.

However, community members believe referrals alone may not be enough to address the seriousness and scale of the problem.

The Community Watch has called on government departments, rehabilitation centres, nonprofit organisations, churches, businesses and community leaders to work together in providing accessible treatment, counselling, aftercare and reintegration programmes.

There is particular concern about the number of young people becoming trapped in substance addiction.

Drug addiction must be treated as a serious health and social issue.

The Zone 3 community believes that crime cannot be addressed through patrols and arrests alone. South Africa must also confront some of the underlying challenges that can contribute to crime, including addiction, unemployment, poverty and a lack of opportunities for young people.

“Drug addiction must be treated as a serious health and social issue. People living with addiction need accountability, but they also need professional treatment, guidance and genuine opportunities to recover.”

By working together, communities can improve safety while also helping those battling addiction.

The Zone 3 Community Watch is appealing for the matter of drug addiction to be taken seriously—not only in the neighbourhood, but throughout South Africa.

“By working together, communities can improve safety while also helping those battling addiction find a path towards recovery, dignity and a better future.”

Police have advised community members to work hand in hand with them.