NUM youth structure in the Free State to lead anti-drug march in Welkom

WELKOM – The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) Youth Structure in the Free State, alongside progressive youth formations, will tomorrow morning, 16 June 2026, march against the devastating drug epidemic destroying the lives of young people in our communities.

Coinciding with the commemoration of the brave youth of 1976, the march serves as a fierce stand against drug trafficking, which exacerbates already crippling levels of youth unemployment, poverty, and crime.

The march will commence at 09:00 from Ok Manny’s Cycle and proceed to the Janhofmeyer Police Station, where a memorandum of demands will be handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) leadership at 11:30.

The NUM Youth Structure demands immediate, decisive action from law enforcement to eradicate drug syndicates. The core demands in the memorandum include:

• Targeted Law Enforcement: The immediate identification, arrest, and prosecution of drug lords and distributors operating within our communities.
• Increased Visibility: Enhanced police patrols and intelligence-led operations in notorious drug hot spots, specifically:
  • Mooi Street (near Giovanni’s)
  • Local Salons
  • The Don Club
  • Specific houses across Thabong and Bronville
• Community Mobilisation: Genuine engagement with youth structures and community organisations to establish robust, preventative anti-drug programmes.
• Accountability: Regular, transparent feedback sessions provided by SAPS to the community regarding progress made in combating drug-related crimes.

The future of this generation cannot be sacrificed to criminal elements. As we honor the legacy of Tsietsi Mashinini and the 1976 generation, we reaffirm our commitment to reclaiming our streets and building safe, healthy, and drug-free communities. 

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the march.

For further information, please contact:

Khanyisile Njingani, NUM Free State Region Youth Structure Secretary, Cell: 078 929 6259

The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NUM/10086002340