The Community Policing Forum (CPF) in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) organized a visibility walkabout today in Richards Bay, starting from Esikhaleni Senkosi and culminating at Richards Bay’s Alkantstrand Beach. The CPF was accompanied by the Colonel Biyela from SAPS. The primary goal of this walkabout was to heighten awareness concerning substance abuse and its aftermath, considering that many crimes reported during this period are linked to substance misuse. Mr. Mbokazi, a CPF member, articulated this concern, emphasizing the importance of community reporting using the emergency number 10111.
Another critical focus of this awareness campaign was illegal firearms, particularly those left behind by legal owners. They underscored that firearms cannot be inherited. He specifically directed this message to widows whose husbands had registered firearms and passed away. He urged them to return these firearms to the SAPS, highlighting that these guns are often stolen by children who then perpetrate crimes with them.
This walkabout preceded the final leg of the Festive Season Inspection Road Show scheduled for tomorrow, December 23, 2023, under the leadership of Minister of Police Mr. Bheki Cele. The day’s itinerary includes various engagements:
– **Venue 1: Walk-about and community engagement at the Broadwalk Mall, Richards Bay**
– Time: 09:00
– **Venue 2: Multi-disciplinary roadblock at Mvoti Plaza, N2**
– Time: 11:00
– **Venue 3: Walk-about and community engagement at Stanger Beach**
– Time: 12:15
– **Venue 4: Bridge City Mall, KwaMashu for a walk-about and community engagement**
– Time: 14:30
– **Venue 5: Walk-about and engagement with beachgoers at the Durban Beachfront**
– Time: 16:00
These details regarding the walkabout were sourced from the Media Release Statement issued by Lirandzu Themba, Police Ministry Spokesperson.
