SAPREF, SAPS Venture at KwaShaka

5 April 2005

A multi-sectorial approach between the SAPS Umlazi, the SAPREF crude oil refinery, local city councillors and the Durban South Community Policing Forum (CPF) is expected to yield results in fighting crime in the Umlazi area.

Aimed at building self-esteem, confidence and motivation, and changing attitudes, the approach will enable the SAPS to focus on substance abuse at youth level.

Captain Vincent Mdunge of the SAPS Umlazi explained the initiative came about following information that the KwaShaka High School was experiencing endless difficulties through the supply of drugs such as dagga, mandrax, cocain, alcohol and other substances to learners during school hours.

"In view of the seriousness and the extent of this problem, a joint contingent comprising Umlazi SAPS, Durban Organised Crime Unit, City Councillors, the local Public Prosecutor and the CPF visited the school to talk about drug abuse," explained Captain Mdunge. "As we felt motivation from the private sector would add value, we invited a representative from SAPREF to also address educators and learners on the issue."

For the past three years SAPREF has been investing in a personal capacity building programme, STEPS TO EXCELLENCE, in neighbouring schools and has now made this available to KwaShaka High School and the SAPS Umlazi. SAPREF community liaison officer, Leonard Mbokazi, said "based on feedback we have had from most of the 280 community participants who have already been through STEPS, we saw how the programme would support the efforts of the SAPS in fighting drugs in Umlazi ."

The STEPS TO EXCELLENCE programme is aimed at bringing about meaningful and lasting change by helping individuals and teams to achieve their potential and develop new ways of viewing life.

Captain Mdunge said the STEPS programme, valued at about R180 000, would help to motivate the youth to focus on their future and will boost the morale of the police, ultimately reducing the levels of crime in the area.

Issued by:
Captain Vincent Mdunge
SAPS Umlazi
Telephone (031) 908 0008
Mobile 072 4825 794