Vrede Park Projects NPO

07/05/2026

07/05/2026

This Child Protection Month, we’re reminded that schools should be safe spaces where every child feels seen, heard and protected.

In South Africa, National Child Protection Week (29 May – 5 June) calls us to action under the theme: “Working together in ending violence against children.”

At The LifeMatters Foundation, our counsellors are present in schools every day offering learners a safe space, a listening ear and the support they need when it matters most.

Because often, struggles show up quietly - in behaviour, in withdrawal, in unspoken fear.

Each of us has a role to play:
✨ Listen without judgement
✨ Take every concern seriously
✨ Help create spaces where children feel safe to speak

One trusted adult can change a child’s life.

07/05/2026

07/05/2026

07/05/2026

🚫 STOP BULLYING
Bullying, sexual harassment and violence have no place in our schools.

📢 REPORT BULLYING
Report Bullying and acts of violence anonymously to keep Gauteng schools safe, supportive and focused on learning:

📞 Call Childline on 116 (toll-free)
📞 Call the South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 567 567

You can also report this to your school’s management, or alternatively contact the Gauteng Department of Education on:
📞 Call: 0800 000 789
💬 WhatsApp: 060 891 0361
📧 Email: [email protected]

07/05/2026

07/05/2026

[UPDATE] Second Kuruman re-arrested

A manhunt launched to apprehend the second escaped prisoner continued unabatedly in the Kuruman area.

According to reports, members were transporting prisoners to the correctional facility when the escape of two prisoners occurred on Monday, 4 May 2026.

Kabelo Edward Masilo (22), a Lesotho national who is facing charges of murder as well as contravention of Sections 43, 32, and 34 of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002) was on the run since escaping on Monday, 4 May 2026 while being transported to a correctional facility in Kuruman.

A team comprising of members from crime prevention and a private security company, led by Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi from Mothibistad were conducting tracing operations from 10:00 until 19:00 on Wednesday, 06 May 2026 as part of the 72 hour activation plan that was initiated after the escape.

Their coordinated and focused efforts resulted in locating Masilo in Skerma Village where he had been hiding. He attempted to flee, but was successfully apprehended and re-arrested.

John Taolo Gaetsewe Acting District Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi praised the team for their tireless efforts that led to the successful arrest of the escaped prisoners.

Additionally he acknowledged the exceptional collaboration between SAPS and private security.

https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/msspeechdetail.php

19/09/2025

The South African Police Service (SAPS) would like to warn the public about an ongoing fraudulent scam. The scam involves an individual impersonating a police official who identifies himself as Captain Sithole from Welkom.

The scammer who is not a member of the SAPS targets unsuspecting individuals, mostly unemployed youth. The individual in question contacts the victims telephonically and claims to be calling from the Welkom SAPS Recruitment office. He then extorts money from the victims and informs the victims that his office is in urgent need of qualifying police recruits for advertised posts. The scammer further promises that contacted clients will be prioritized for selection.

Members of the public are warned not to supply any documents or personal information to the scammer.

The SAPS brings it to the attention of the public to note that the following platform is used for advertisement of posts:
* The official SAPS website, www.saps.gov.za for information about recruitment drives.
The SAPS does not work with agents for advertised posts and will not request any form of gratuity from applicants.
The SAPS urges individuals who might have fallen victim to the scam to come forward and report the matter.
https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/msspeechdetail.php?nid=64002

19/09/2025

The Northern Cape SAPS Management welcomes the life sentence imposed on a 43-year-old man for ra**ng an 11-year-old girl in Niekerkshoop.

The accused, who is known to the girl and her family lured the victim to his house on 25 February 2024.
He pushed her onto his bed and forcefully r***d her.
The victim reported the matter to her family and the police arrested the accused the following day.

He remained in custody until his sentencing on 18 September 2025 to life imprisonment in the Griekwastad Regional Court.
He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name is to be entered into the National Register for S*x Offenders.

The District Commissioner for Pixley Ka Seme, Major General Nomana Mtukushe commended Detective Sergeant Riaan Van Wyk from the Prieska Family Violence, Child Protection and S*xual Offences unit for his meticulous investigation that led to the outstanding and suitable life sentence. She also cited that the detectives in the district remains resolute and committed in seeking and providing justice for victims of gender based violence and femicide.

She also thanked Prosecutor Phakiso Thebane for the collaborative efforts in court that brought justice for the victim and ensured that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are placed behind bars where they belong.
https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/msspeechdetail.php?nid=64006

19/09/2025