AfriForum Youth equips Rustenburg residents with self-defence skills

AfriForum Youth’s Rustenburg branch held a free self-defence class for residents on Saturday, 19 September. The branch aims to help residents recognise potential danger early and be better prepared when they face a threat.

The latest available crime figures show why local safety remains a concern. Between April and June 2026, the Rustenburg police precinct recorded 108 cases of common assault, 60 cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 23 rapes, ten murders and seven attempted murders. Although the total number of reported crimes in the precinct was lower than in the same quarter last year, common assault rose by 5.9%.

During the class, participants learned about situational awareness and practical self-defence. They were shown how to recognise potential danger in their surroundings and respond when they need to protect themselves.

“These figures show that people in Rustenburg still face violent crime. We want residents to recognise danger earlier and know what they can do when they are threatened. That is why AfriForum Youth offers practical training they can use in their daily lives,” says Jaun Ferreira, chairperson of AfriForum Youth’s Rustenburg branch.

AfriForum Youth’s Rustenburg branch encourages residents to take part in its future self-defence classes and other safety initiatives.