Protecting Pretoria’s Youth: Joint Awareness Drive on Child Grooming at St Mary’s Diocesan School

Hillcrest, Pretoria – Unchain Our Children (UOC), together with Pro Shield Security and Brooklyn SAPS, recently conducted an important educational outreach at St Mary’s Diocesan School for Girls in Hillcrest, Pretoria.

The program focused on raising awareness about online predators and their grooming tactics. Learners and teachers were warned about how predators often pose as “friends” or peers, using compliments and flattery to build trust before exploiting their victims. The session equipped attendees with knowledge to recognize these sly manipulation techniques in the digital world.

SAPS members from Brooklyn emphasized the importance of truthful reporting. They highlighted the consequences of false reporting or misrepresentation of sexual offences. Under the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007, specifically Section 168B, knowingly making false allegations of sexual offences is a criminal offence punishable by up to five years imprisonment. This applies to everyone, including minors.

The police also addressed the serious risks when minors create and distribute illicit images (sexting or self-generated child sexual abuse material). Under the Films and Publications Act 65 of 1996 (as amended), it is illegal for anyone to create, possess, or distribute child pornography involving persons under 18. Penalties are severe and can reach up to 10 years imprisonment per offence, even when minors are involved.

“Unchain Our Children strongly believes in the power of collaboration. By partnering with Pro Shield Security and SAPS, UOC is able to tackle child exploitation from multiple angles — education, security, and law enforcement. These joint efforts create greater impact and deliver more comprehensive protection for vulnerable children”.  Wayne van Onselen, Founder & Executive Director, Unchain Our Children

UOC continues to work closely with SAPS and other partner organizations across South Africa. Such teamwork is vital in the fight against sexual exploitation. When organizations combine their specialized expertise, they build a stronger safety net, deter perpetrators more effectively, and foster safer communities for children.

Pro Shield Security has become a trusted partner of Unchain Our Children, contributing professional security expertise and practical protection strategies to UOC’s awareness campaigns. This partnership strengthens the organization’s ability to deliver impactful, well-rounded programs that blend education with real-world safety measures.Together, through education, vigilance, and accountability, we can protect our children from

online threats.

Protect our children. Report responsibly. Stay vigilant.

To Book an Information Session:  Call Wayne:  072 364 8246