Odendaalsrus and Hennenman SAPS collaborated with Transnet and Senqobile Equestrian Security Services to host a two-day railway safety, crime prevention and community outreach campaign on 26 and 27 June 2026. Corporate Communication, Community Police Forum (CPF), Youth Desk and the Department of Basic Education (DBE) participated in the project.

The campaign, initiated by Transnet and Senqobile, commenced at TS Matlaletsa Primary School in Odendaalsrus on Friday, 26 June. The team proceeded to Kalkvlakte Primary School in Hennenman, where learners from underprivileged families received school shoes and groceries. The schools received educational equipment.

The campaign targeted schools near railway lines. Learners and community members received information on railway public safety and were encouraged to report incidents of tampering and vandalism of infrastructure to local authorities. Officials explained the consequences of cable theft on the community’s economic growth and development.

The second day took place on Saturday, 27 June at Kalkvlakte Farm sports grounds. Six teams from schools and communities competed in netball and soccer. The tournament aimed to highlight sport’s role in youth development and community building.

Colonel Thenjiwe Mkhumbeni, chairperson of the Crime Combating Forum Committee dealing with infrastructure, addressed participants. She encouraged the youth to engage in activities that keep them away from criminal activities and to refrain from drug and substance abuse. She advocated for responsible social media usage and said the South African Police Service will continue efforts to create safer schools and communities.

Educational pamphlets were distributed among community members. Teams received sports kits and winning teams received trophies.

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