IMBIZO TO ADDRESS CRIME ISSUES IN LEBOWAKGOMO
POLOKWANE In an effort to combat crime rate and foster community engagement, the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, joined by her Management led an Imbizo at Ga-Maja Village in Lebowakgomo under Capricorn District on Wednesday 27 September 2023.
The main event was held at Mahwibitswane Sports Ground, attended by Maja Traditional Authority, representatives of House of Traditional Authorities and other local Traditional leaders, Capricorn District MMC Caroline Mamabolo, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Support Services Major General Christine Morakaladi, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing Major General Jan Scheepers, District Commissioners, SAPS Provincial Heads, representative of Transport and Community Safety, Education, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), CPF, YCOP, Spiritual Crime Prevention as well as other role players.
The Provincial Commissioner and her Management are taking proactive steps to address the pressing issues of Crime within Lebowakgomo Policing precinct, enhancing collaboration between various stakeholders, community leaders and residents.
The other objective behind the initiative was for the Provincial Commissioner to officially introduce the new key Management of Lebowakgomo Police Station to the community being the Station Commander Brigadier Moota Ramakgoakgoa, VISPOL Commander Colonel Tshivhidzo Peter Nemaitoni and Detective Branch Commander Colonel Mmapitsi Sekotlong, with the aim to bolster Service delivery and restore public confidence.
Chairperson of the Provincial Youth Against Crime, Kabelo Machete, Chairperson of the Community Policing Board Frans Kgasago, Junior Provincial Commissioner Musa Motloutsi, Chairperson of Men for Change Colonel Remmonejeso Sekgota, Chairperson of the Women’s Network, Brigadier Maggie Mashila, Provincial Head of FCS Brigadier Lienkie Mathebula and Provincial Head of Serious and Violent Crime Unit Brigadier Venitia Masingi were amongst the speakers who presented on crucial issues such as the rise in crimes against women and children, substance abuse, stock theft, mob justice and liquor generated crimes.
During the Imbizo, attendees deliberated on crime trends in the area, presentations on crime prevention strategies and initiatives as well as information sharing on community policing efforts and resources, including the need for a a Satellite Police Station.
The Provincial Commissioner applauded the former Acting Station Commander who is now the VISPOL Commander Colonel Tshivhidzo Peter Nemaitoni for the remarkable work and said she is confident that the new chief in town, together with his team will deliver more positive results.The General further indicated that the main goal during her leadership, is to ensure crime is reduced and this Province remains safe.
The newly appointed Station Commander Brigadier Ramakgoakgoa thanked the community for coming in numbers and promised to serve with diligence and commitment.
As the programme concluded, the Provincial Commissioner and her entourage donated rechargeable lights for the matric learners from various selected schools to assist with their studies during load shedding. In addition, the traditional groups that performed during the event and competed against each other were awarded with trophies for their outstanding performance.
Meanwhile, the SAPS band also delivered an outstanding and professional performance, and officially closed the programme with the National Anthem.
