22/03/2026
[Delayed post]
📸|| On 20th March 2026, the ANCYL Bonfire Maponya Branch conducted a visit to the Maake SAPS as part of our ongoing programme to build safer communities and protect young people.
This engagement was guided by two urgent concerns affecting our community: the rise of bullying in schools, as well as the growing problem of drugs within our communities. These challenges continue to undermine the safety, dignity, and future of young people, and require a united response.
Maake SAPS shared critical insights on how communities can work together with law enforcement. They emphasized the importance of active involvement by community members, parents, SGBs, educators, and community leaders in identifying and reporting criminal activities. It was clearly stated that without reporting, SAPS cannot act effectively.
The ANCYL Bonfire Maponya Branch further encourages all community members to familiarise themselves with the mySAPS app, which is a vital tool that enables citizens to report crimes, access information, and play an active role in crime prevention.
A deeply concerning issue raised during the engagement is the increasing number of reported r**e cases, particularly involving young women and men, occurring over weekends. Maake SAPS highlighted that many of these cases arise from situations where there are disputes following agreements of exchanging money for sexual activities. This trend is alarming, harmful, and places a strain on the justice system, while also undermining the broader fight against gender-based violence.
The ANCYL remains firm that no circumstance ever justifies r**e or any form of sexual violence. We call on young people to uphold respect, dignity, and consent in all interactions, and urge the community to confront and reject behaviours that normalise exploitation and abuse.
As the ANCYL, we reaffirm our commitment to working with SAPS, communities, and all stakeholders to build a safer environment. The fight against crime requires unity, responsibility, and active participation from all sectors of society.
Issued by ANCYL Bonfire Maponya Branch
FOR ENQUIRIES:
BRANCH SECRETARY
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