The dialogue, featuring Lt Col Thabo Covane (tertiary institutions safety officer in the Mangaung Metro), Sgt Lerige Timothy Khoali, and GCIS regional communication officer Motseki Ngubeni, addressed the specific crime risks faced by students both on and off campus.

Several crime types were highlighted during the campaign. Students commuting between campus and their accommodation – especially along routes such as Ella Street and 2nd Avenue – or jogging early in the morning were identified as particularly vulnerable to robbery.

“Online scams are on the rise, with parents and students falling prey to accommodation offers advertised on social media platforms. Fraudsters often vanish once payments are made,” said Covane.

Students jogging in the morning are advised to be cautious. Photo: Freepik

Inadequate security measures at student residences contribute to burglary cases in areas such as Brandwag, Universitas, and Willows, he added. In addition, interactions in shared social spaces have, regrettably, led to reports of gender-based violence.

In response, the police have intensified their efforts beyond existing integrated joint operations, including initiatives like Operation Shanela II.

The police have committed additional resources to enhance visibility around tertiary institutions and student accommodations. 

The police are encouraging students to form peer safety groups and use WhatsApp alert networks for mutual protection. Photo: Freepik 

Regular visits are conducted to identified drug hotspots and liquor outlets, while crime awareness initiatives are carried out in collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Community Police Forum, the GCIS, and private security companies.

Campus community safety forums have also been established at the University of the Free State and the Central University of Technology.

“Students are encouraged to report incidents immediately and take note of relevant details,” said Covane.

Role of social media

SAPS is further urging students to form peer safety groups, and the use of WhatsApp alert networks is recommended for mutual protection. The campaign also promotes downloading the MySAPS App as a quick and convenient tool for reporting incidents.

GCIS is leveraging a wide range of platforms to amplify these safety messages, added Ngubeni. 

Social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok are being used to share crime prevention information and encourage community vigilance.

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