TSHILWAVHUSIKU - The Deputy Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo Major General Jan Scheepers together the District Commissioner of Vhembe Major General Eddie Van Der Walt, had on Friday, 22 April 2022 launched the Community in Blue Concept and a re-opening of Madombidzha Satellite Police Station at Madombidzha Village in Tshilwavhusiku policing area under Vhembe District.
The event was attended by Chief Ntsundeni Sinthumule of Ha-Sinthumule, Tribal Council, Brigadier Maila from Saps Provincial Office, Station Commander of Tshilwabusiku Lieutenant Colonel Machaba, Saps members, Saps Brass Band, Chairperson of Louis Trichardt Rural Safety Mr Christo Snyman, Department of Health, Pastors, Zoutpansberg Community Development Forum (ZCDF) and other stakeholders.
The event started with a briefing session at Ha Sinthumule Tribal Authority, where the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing Major General Jan Scheepers, clearly outlined the motive behind the launching of 'Community in Blue' concept. He said "The only possible way for our area to be crime free and peaceful, it's when there is a working relationship between the Police and members of the community in bringing stability within our communities
The entourage proceeded to the main event at Amazing Grace Church.
Pastor Lithole opened with prayer and scripture reading, and Mr Sikutshi of ZCDF explained the purpose of the event, which is partnership between the Police and Community in the initiative of launching the Community in Blue Programme. He said, "As the community we are also celebrating the re-opening of Madombidzha Satellite Police Station because it will be easy for community to access general Police services and combating criminal activities within the area."
In the messages of support by various stakeholders, they have appreciated the police for applying further measures of fighting against crime by inviting the community to come on board and as we have a common goal of removing criminals from the society. They also requested the Police to monitor the operating hours of the taverns within the community and provide the area with more resources to elevate service delivery.
Community was encouraged to attend community meetings, report criminal activities and provide information to the police and work together with other stakeholders to win against crime.
The District Commissioner of Vhembe District Major General Van Der Walt rendered the item of launching the Community in Blue. He started by welcoming the new members and outlined their daily responsibilities within the community. All the members were given the reflector jackets.
Major General Jan Scheepers in his keynote address, Condemned the Gender Based Violence and Femicides incidents which are continuing within our communities. To the members of Community in Blue, he said "You are exactly what the Saps and Community need. Let's ensure that our common goal is achieved." He called the community to be united and never retreat from being good citizens that protects each other. He concluded by advising the attendees to ask wisdom from God and invite Him to change our villages.
Major General Jan Scheepers received token of appreciation from other stakeholders.
The Community members were given a chance to ask questions, some of the concerns were about the stock theft, liquor outlets, drugs, and Police Services were recognised. They requested the Police to involve the Traditional Authorities in their daily operations of dealing with crime.
Source: South African Police Service