Picture: The police and other stakeholders pray against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant Col Koliswa Otola said, community members should unite in the quest to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). Otola said they will need everyone’s contribution to end the pandemic.
“We hosted the GBVF Inter-Faith/Moral Regeneration Prayer Service at the Galeshewe Traffic Circle on 2 November 2023 under the theme: “Let Jesus say something in the midst of your challenge.”. The event commenced with a motorcade and prayer walk led by male spiritual leaders from Galeshewe Police Station at 9am and proceeded to the Galeshewe Circle.
“The church service was opened with interfaith prayers by different religious leaders and the welcoming address delivered by Frances Baard District Commissioner, Maj Gen Johan Bean,” she said.
Otola further said the Provincial Chairperson for Spiritual Crime Prevention, Rev Shimane Morake shared the same sentiments. She added that Morake outlined the service was focused on GBVF and seen as a build-up to the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign.
“Messages of support were offered by the Moral Regeneration Movement from the Office of the Premier, GAMIFRA, the Rastafarian Community, and the Provincial Community Police Board. Policing GBVF remains one of her priorities in combating crime in the province.
“Efforts are reinforced in order to address all contact crimes. The actions will be more focused, intensified, and enhanced on GBVF during 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the Festive Season, and beyond by ensuring more boots on the ground,” said Otola.
She said they are working with the Community Policing Forum (CPF), Crime Fighting Organisations, Community in Blue Patrollers, and all other relevant stakeholders. Otola said Operation Shanela actions will be enhanced and intensified throughout the province, specifically focusing on hotspot areas.
“The sermon of the day was directed by Presiding Elder Bernett Phoko. Intercessory prayers focusing on GBVF, police safety for the festive season, youth, and substance abuse were also offered by church leaders.
“The day was concluded with the vote of thanks by Major Gen Lekhele, who appreciated the Programme Director, the Provincial Pro-Active Crime Prevention representative, Abraham Tsoone, for spearheading the event in conjunction with all relevant role players, sponsors, and the community,” she said.
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