Police open their hearts to two young robbery victims

Two families in the Eastern Cape were overwhelmed when they were honored by a surprise visit on 21 December 2021 by police members from the Provincial Visible Policing, station members, and the Sterkspruit Community Policing Forum. The purpose of the visit to the Sikiti and Mayisela families was to hand over cellphones to two schoolgirls, Vuyiswa Sikiti and Emihle Mayisela as well as groceries to their families.

The first home that was visited was that of Vuyiswa Sikiti who is the Palmietfontein Junior Station Commissioner followed by that of Emihle Mayisela who is the District Junior Visible Policing Commander. The South African Police team under the leadership of Colonel Sibongile Soci was welcomed with open arms by both families namely Ms. Nolubabalo Sikiti, Vuyiswa’s grandmother, and Mr. Mbulelo Zililo, Emihle’s grandfather.

Sgt Xhanti Mjikeliso, Provincial Youth and Schools Co-ordinator explained the purpose of the visit and outlined that the two cellphones are being replaced by compassionate police members. “We felt heart sore when we heard that the girls were robbed and decided to reward them with a Christmas gift not only for them but also for their families. We care about our communities especially when the vulnerable become easy targets for criminals. It is important that we also encourage the parents to offer support and encouragement to the girls in their endeavors in the Safer Schools Programs and other crime-fighting initiatives in their communities”, he said.

Col Sibongile Soci, Provincial Commander: Crime Awareness Campaigns & Partnership Policing handed over the phones and the groceries which were bought for the families from the donations raised from various members/employees at the Provincial Head Office. “We are here representing the office of the Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene to hand over the phones and groceries. As a gesture of goodwill and compassion, we present you with these gifts as the SAPS cares for you and your contribution to the youth in your respective communities. You are the ambassadors for the youth and through your positive attitude, we will succeed in turning the youth away from criminal activities,” she said.

In response to the kind gestures, both families appreciated the visits and welcomed the groceries and cellphones. Ms. Nolubalo Sikiti added that she is grateful that Vuyiswa has received the cellphone as cellphones are also vital for their school work.

Mr. Mbulelo Zilio expressed his gratitude for the visit and for the SAPS family to think about the families especially during this time of Christmas as some families have little to celebrate due to financial constraints. “These groceries will make a huge difference and we will remember your kindness for a very long time. I am also grateful that I now understand what Emihle is doing as the Junior District Visible Commander. The hand that gives is more blessed than the hand that receives and we applaud the SAPS for the work you do,” he added.