By REGINALD KANYANE
17 February 2025- The police in Northern Cape engaged with approximately 150 Grade 8 learners from a high school in Douglas on Thursday. Members from the Kimberley SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences unit, Warrant Officer Shaniela Antonie, and Constable Harris Witbooi, addressed the learners.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said, they outlined their roles and concerns with the increased occurrences of bullying at schools. Kock said Antonie and Witbooi, also highlighted topics relating to the types of bullying, cyberbullying, and sexual offenses.
“The SAPS Provincial Forensic Social Worker Commander, Colonel Lezelda Raymond educated the scholars on teenage pregnancy, how to take care of their bodies and emotions, including general safety hints.
“Sergeant Anton Baartman from Douglas SAPS Social Crime Prevention and Dineo Speak from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), addressed the criminal aspect of bullying and explained the consequences they can face if found guilty of such an offence,” he said.
Kock further said the Sarag NGO and Department of Transport, Safety, and Liason Safety Volunteers, delivered motivational messages and pledged to support the police with initiatives in fighting the scourge of bullying at schools and in the communities. He added the police cautioned children against general criminal behaviour as it will limit their prospects.
“The police will continue with awareness programs and the sharing of information to support and empower victims of bullying and assist in eradicating this type of behavior from our schools and society at large,” said Kock.
The Guardian 