step in encouraging the youth to assist the police towards crime prevention
initiative
21 June 2007
The month of June has been declared a youth month, and in line with other
themes for the youth, the South African Police Service(SAPS) has decided to
engage the youth, and to involve them (the youth) in programmes of purposeful
living, crime prevention initiatives and skills development.
The "Men for Change" Forum aims to address the youth about positive
character, emotional intelligence as the cornerstone for success and thus
instilling hope and ubuntu to our youngsters. The objective is to educate and
inform the youth about crime prevention initiatives. It will help them to
concentrate on building the character, leadership and confidence which is
necessary for the youth to mature into adults who will contribute to a crime
free society. Youth month activities will renew the pledge to strengthen
partnership for youth development across the country. In a close relationship
with the police, youth may be better able to understand issues related to
criminal activities and why some crimes affect essentially the youth. The
SAPS's interaction with other government departments will allow the youth to
gain a better grasp of how crime affects the socio-economic conditions of the
country for example money laundering, fraud, drugs and others. The youth will
be encouraged to be vigilant at all times and prevent crime that touches our
lives daily.
Some of the issues will be about gang violence in which many progressive
communities are implementing a combination of crime prevention initiatives
(including citizens, youth, community groups and police), crime hints,
emergency 10111 and the recently launched sms 32211, which is another way of
reporting crime to the police. The youth will also be encouraged to take part
in Community Policing Forums. The SAPS "Men for Change" Forum will emphasise
that crime is indeed all around us and we need to join hands together in
combating crime. Social intervention (especially youth outreach programmes and
work with street gangs) will be directed towards streamlining the youth
activities in line with community living, and thereby bringing about safety and
security to all.
We have a duty and obligation to ACT, i.e. to fight against crime
together.
Enquiries:
Captain Khumiso Seketema
Media Relation: Communication and Liaison Services
South African Police Service, Head Office
Tel: 012 393 5490/1
Fax: 012 393 5527
Cell: 082 333 2544
E-mail: mediarelations@saps.org.za
Issued by: South African Police Service
21 June 2007
