Police, NPA take GBVF awareness to Galeshewe

A CO-ORDINATED push to confront gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) unfolded in Galeshewe this week, as police and justice officials took their message directly to shoppers along one of Kimberley’s busiest routes.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the awareness drive was led by Galeshewe SAPS Social Crime Prevention in partnership with the National Prosecuting Authority, turning the Shoprite Shopping Centre in Barkly Road into a hub of information, support and practical assistance on January 29.

Instead of a closed-door workshop, the multi-disciplinary team deliberately chose a public space, engaging residents where they shop and move daily. Representatives from across the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster joined forces, including the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Social Crime units, and several specialised NPA divisions. These included Sexual Offences Community Affairs, Community Prosecution, the Maintenance Office and the Thuthuzela Care Centre, ensuring that community members could access a wide range of services and guidance in one place.

A visible focal point of the operation was the SAPS Mobile Community Service Centre, stationed in the shopping centre parking area. Staffed by Galeshewe Crime Prevention officers, sector policing teams, the SAPS Women’s Network and safety partners, the mobile unit allowed residents to interact directly with officials, ask questions and receive assistance without having to travel to a police station.

Throughout the day, officials also engaged shoppers in conversations about domestic violence, GBVF and related social harms, while distributing pamphlets and practical information. The outreach went beyond GBVF alone, extending to safety tips on preventing human trafficking, addressing substance abuse, improving pedestrian safety and recognising early warning signs of abuse.

“This type of engagement brings stakeholders together in an effort to sensitise community members about GBVF-related incidents, as it was declared by the president of South Africa as a national disaster,” said Warrant Officer Shemane.

According to Shemane, the campaign reflects an ongoing commitment by SAPS in the Northern Cape, working alongside the JCPS cluster, to move from reactive policing to proactive community engagement. By meeting residents face to face and making services more accessible, authorities aim to strengthen awareness, encourage reporting and reinforce the message that community safety is a shared responsibility.