KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has launched the province’s safer festive season campaign with a direct and stern warning to matric pupils. This is to ensure your pens down celebrations do not break the law.
THE POLICE COMMISSIONER’S WARNING
The warning comes as Grade 12 learners across the province are near the end of their final examinations.
Commissioner Mkhwanazi acknowledged the tradition of pens down parties but expressed serious concern over their potential for danger.
He highlighted that past events have spiralled out of control, leading to tragic outcomes, according to EWN.
THE PENS DOWN PARTIES
“In KwaZulu-Natal, the phenomenon of ‘pens down’ or explosion parties is prevalent,” stated Mkhwanazi. He noted that these gatherings often see underage pupils indulging in alcohol and illegal drugs.
This can lead to devastating consequences.
“These parties must be treated in a manner that it’s a celebratory party and not parties that are going to cause mayhem.
Where some of these kids are going to fall victim to rape and assault and even murder,” he emphasised.
PARENTS TO REMAIN VIGILANT DURING PENS DOWN
The police commissioner issued an uncompromising message to both pupils and parents, according to IOL.
He urged parents to practice active parenthood and discourage their children from engaging in risky behaviour. He also made it clear that law enforcement would show zero tolerance.
“You do not want your child to conflict with the law because police will be out in full force,” Mkhwanazi warned.
“We would make sure that we do not negotiate with lawbreakers, including your children, who are going to be celebrating. We will have no mercy on them if they break the law.”
NEW RECRUITS TO BE DEPLOYED
The safety campaign will see a significant police presence, with 1,000 new recruits being deployed to key areas.
The focus will be on known party hotspots, including the popular rage festival in Ballito. This is to ensure that the tradition of a pens down celebration does not mark a tragic end to a pupil’s school career.
