Residents of Makuleke and surrounding villages used a crime prevention imbizo held on Thursday, 18 June, to raise concerns about gender-based violence, substance abuse, child neglect and bullying in schools.
The event, held at Makuleke Sports Ground, was led by Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe and formed part of police efforts to strengthen community safety and combat crime.
Police leaders, traditional authorities, government departments, community organisations and residents gathered to discuss challenges affecting the Saselamani policing area.
The main objective of the imbizo was to help “take back Saselamani from crime”, with a focus on gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), stock theft and substance abuse. Community members were given an opportunity to engage directly with police leadership and raise concerns about crime and safety in their villages.
Among the issues raised were alcohol and drug abuse, violence against women and children, child neglect and bullying in schools.
Responding to residents, Hadebe expressed concern about the growing availability of illicit substances in the area.
She urged community members to report drug dealers and other criminal activities to the police. She also called on liquor outlet owners to comply with laws regulating alcohol sales and encouraged responsible drinking.
Addressing gender-based violence, Hadebe said domestic abuse should never be treated as a private matter.
“We must break the silence. We must stop treating domestic violence as a private matter. When a woman is assaulted, it is not a family issue – it is a crime, and it must be reported as such,” she said.
Traditional leader Ndhavezitha Humphrey Mugakula welcomed the engagement and pledged continued cooperation with police in tackling crime, including GBVF, stock theft and wildlife-related offences. He also committed to monitoring liquor outlets operating outside their permitted trading hours and advocating for the relocation of those situated close to schools.