The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga hosted a Youth Against Crime Awareness Campaign in Lydenburg under the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality.

The SAPS Provincial Corporate Communication unit organised the campaign in collaboration with members from Lydenburg SAPS and Constable Mdhluli, the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) coordinator.

The initiative formed part of ongoing community outreach programmes aimed at educating and empowering young people about crime prevention, social challenges and responsible decision-making.

Several stakeholders partnered with SAPS for the campaign, including LoveLife, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Health, Thaba Chweu Local Municipality, Khulangwabe Youth Centre, Mashishing TVET College Campus, and Naledi Project NPC.

During the engagement, young people from the community were addressed on various social and crime-related issues affecting youth and communities. The discussions focused on equipping young people with knowledge to protect themselves and make informed choices.

Key topics discussed during the campaign included rape involving minors and persons living with disabilities, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, and Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

Officials and stakeholders encouraged young people to participate in crime prevention initiatives actively, make responsible life choices, and support efforts to build safer communities.

The campaign also created an opportunity for government departments and community organisations to strengthen collaboration in addressing social challenges affecting young people.

Members of the public are encouraged to report criminal activities to the police by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or by using the MySAPSApp to report anonymously.