By Ncaba Ntshakala
A gala dinner hosted by Hlathikulu Police Station raised pledges worth over E200,000 in money, livestock, and other valuable items to support crime prevention and community development initiatives.
Contributions flowed from a diverse range of supporters, including individuals, groups, entities, dignitaries, and police officers.
Leading the pack were World Vision and Montigny, whose generosity outshone others.
The event, organized to secure funds for shielding the youth from criminal activities, aiding the needy, and equipping the Community Police with resources and training, was inspired by a recent environmental scan conducted in the Hlathikhulu jurisdiction.
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The survey revealed a troubling trend of youth involvement in most crimes, which was said to express the urgent need for targeted intervention programs.
The National Commissioner of Police Vusie Manoma Masango, speaking at the dinner, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support.
“Crime at one point threatened to be a menace in society,” he remarked, where he also highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in combating the issue.
Masango stressed that without the partnership of chiefs, traditional authorities, town boards, and other stakeholders, the police would struggle to launch effective crime-fighting measures.
The Commissioner placed strong emphasis on the Police Service’s commitment to reducing crime and fostering a safer society, particularly by focusing on youth engagement and empowerment.
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He lauded the efforts of Hlathikhulu Police Station in spearheading initiatives aimed at creating a positive impact in their community.
The pledges raised during the gala dinner were said to be instrumental in rolling out community programs that not only deter young people from criminal behaviour but also strengthen the capacity of local Community Police teams.
The funds will be used to capacitate the Community Police team which are from all communities under the Hlathikhulu Police jurisdiction.
