​On Thursday, 14 August 2025, the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s Southern Corridor Crime Prevention Unit, in partnership with various local Non-Profit Organisations, hosted an anti-bullying, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and anti-gangsterism awareness campaign in Polokong.
The campaign aimed to raise awareness, particularly among young people on dangers of bullying and gangsterism, as well as the devastating impact GBV has on the future of women and children. It also sought to address the ongoing challenge of violence in schools, which continues to affect many communities.

Social Worker Nomvula Seretlo highlighted that gangs create an environment of fear and violence in communities, schools, and even government facilities. “To effectively address this social ill, we must acknowledge the problem and build strong partnerships between communities and law enforcement. Our focus must include youth, parents, and various sectors of society,” she said.

She added that such engagements help educate communities to recognise the early signs of children becoming involved in gangs, and to develop the social skills needed to guide them away from criminal activity.

Sergeant Anikie Molefi from the South African Police Service urged residents to work closely with the SAPS in reporting gangsterism and GBV. “Some perpetrators are our own brothers. We must take responsibility as residents to ensure our areas are rid of gangs,” Molefi emphasised.

Pule Motswaledi from Department of Correctional Services spoke about the harsh realities of crime and its consequences. “There are many gangsters serving maximum sentences, and the juvenile detention is not a fun place to be,” she warned. Motswaledi urged youth to choose their friends wisely, stay away from crime, and focus on education and skills development
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“Stay away from gangs, bullying, and all destructive behaviour. If you’re unemployed, focus on upskilling yourself to become employable rather than wasting time on things that will take you nowhere,” he added.

Local youth Thabiso Mfekwa (23) expressed appreciation for the initiative. "We do have problems with gangs and substance abuse in Polokong. We applaud government for engaging with our community, especially our young people," he said.