New training module for AfriForum neighbourhood watches after increase in child kidnappings

AfriForum’s Community Safety division is making a new national training module available to its 177 neighbourhood and farm watch structures this week. This module is aimed at equipping neighbourhood watch members with the necessary knowledge and skills to prevent and respond to cases of kidnapping. This comes after a disturbing increase in kidnappings, especially child kidnappings, across South Africa.

The module outlines the different forms of kidnapping and also explains various behavioral indicators, practical prevention and response strategies. The content also includes checklists, real-life case studies and guidance for coordinating with law enforcement and emergency services.

According to Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s Chief Spokesperson on Community Safety, it is necessary to equip neighbourhood watch members with this knowledge as cases of kidnapping and child abduction have increased significantly and pose a threat to communities.

In Pretoria alone, 108 cases of child kidnapping were reported to the SAPS between January and March this year – 22 of these cases were reported in Pretoria Central. However, this problem is widespread. Communities live in fear as criminals increasingly target vulnerable individuals such as children and women for financial gain.

According to media reports, kidnapping in South Africa is much worse than it was a decade ago. Kidnappings have increased by almost 264% from 4 692 cases in 2014/15 to 17 061 cases in 2023/24. The cases in Gauteng contribute to 52.8% of all kidnapping cases reported in the country. Cases of kidnapping and child kidnapping in the North West province increased to 2 414 between January and March this year compared to 2 085 in the first quarter of last year. This is a national trend and due to a lack of prompt action, the suspects in these cases are rarely apprehended.

“Every case of kidnapping or abduction is not just a crime, it is a direct attack on our families, our children and our sense of security. This training will empower communities to be the first and fastest line of defence and play an active role in combating this terrible crime,” says Broodryk.

AfriForum’s training module is a critical step in bridging the safety gap caused by unresponsive and understaffed law enforcement.

Broodryk is calling on communities to make a conscious effort to increase their personal safety. “Simple steps like changing your daily routine regularly, being aware of your surroundings and knowing the latest crime trends can help prevent you from becoming an easy target.”

The training module also outlines several prevention tips for securing homes, workplaces and children to limit the risk of kidnapping. Some of the tips include being cautious about information shared on social media platforms, using GPS devices for children and the elderly, and being aware of emergency procedures that can be followed.

The organisation calls on all communities to remain vigilant, get involved and make use of AfriForum’s safety training and structures.

For more information or to access the training module, visit www.afriforum.co.za or contact your local AfriForum branch.