The issue of pupils selling dagga at schools in Eswatini has been brought to light by Community Safety Officer at the Manzini Police Station, Constable Vuyisile Dvuba. During the Manzini North Culture Day, Dvuba revealed that some children are involved in selling dagga and other forms of drugs within school premises. This growing trend has raised concern over the involvement of children in drug-related activities.
According to Dvuba, some informal transport operators and drivers, known as bomalume, are allegedly involved in drug dealing. They reportedly hide dagga in pupils' schoolbags and instruct them to sell it at school. Dvuba urged learners to report to the police whenever they are given dagga or any other illicit substances to sell at school, emphasizing that children should not be used to smuggle drugs.
The issue of drug abuse among the youth in Eswatini is particularly worrying, with Dvuba noting a decline in the number of elderly approaching the inkhundla for assistance with applications to access elderly grants. Instead, there is an increasing number of forms being signed by the inkhundla for young people who need admission to the National Psychiatric Referral Hospital due to substance abuse.
Dvuba advised parents to pay close attention to their children's behavior and activities to prevent them from becoming involved in drug abuse. She recommended that parents visit their children regularly, clean their houses, collect their laundry, and check their pockets and belongings for possible signs of drug use. If parents discover drugs in their children's possession, they should approach the nearest police station for assistance.
Dvuba also warned residents to be vigilant against scammers who have intensified their activities following the official announcement of the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) recruitment exercise. These scammers, known as 'facata,' promise unsuspecting locals employment within the police service in exchange for money. Dvuba urged residents not to lose their hard-earned money to fraudsters and instead encouraged aspiring applicants to trust in a fair recruitment process.
In addition to drug-related issues, Dvuba warned residents against contravening the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act. She cautioned that even minor acts of violence could carry serious financial consequences, citing that slapping another person across the face with an open hand could result in a fine of up to E5 000 upon conviction. Dvuba emphasized the importance of seeking assistance from relevant organizations, including police stations, to resolve disputes.
Dvuba concluded by urging residents to report all forms of criminal activity and stressing that the culture of protecting offenders under the guise of tibi tendlu (family secrets) should not be tolerated. Police stations, she emphasized, are not only places for arrests but also provide a platform for individuals to seek guidance and resolve disputes.
Key points
- Some pupils in Eswatini are selling dagga at schools, often at the behest of informal transport operators and drivers.
- The issue of drug abuse among the youth in Eswatini is a growing concern, with an increasing number of young people requiring admission to the National Psychiatric Referral Hospital.
- Residents are warned to be vigilant against scammers promising employment within the police service in exchange for money.
