Seshego: The Provincial Corporate Communication and Media Liaison Services Unit engaged with media houses at a Communication Forum hosted by SAPS Seshego in the Capricorn District. The event aimed to foster collaboration and build strong relationships with the media concerning crime reporting.
According to South African Police Service, the forum saw the participation of key figures such as the Provincial Head of Provincial Commercial Crime Investigation, Brigadier Ramokolo, and the Provincial Commander of Media Relations, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, among others. Media representation included Mohodi Community Radio, Moletjie Community Radio, Blouberg Community Radio, and Radio Turf.
Colonel Ledwaba presented on the state of Corporate Communication in the province, stressing the mutual need for cooperation between media houses and the police to educate and inform the public on crime prevention. He referred to the National Instruction 05 of 2017, ensuring media apparatus should not be destroyed or confiscated by police members, emphasizing a cooperative relationship between media and law enforcement.
Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng discussed the Memorandum of Understanding between SAPS and the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF), focusing on crime scene management, protocols for information sharing, and ensuring balanced media reporting. He reiterated that collaboration with the media is ongoing and vital.
Additionally, Thakeng highlighted outreach initiatives such as Vala Umgodi awareness campaigns to educate the public on legal sand mining processes. The forum concluded with media representatives engaging the police for further clarifications and recommendations, which received positive responses from the committee.