As we commemorate Women’s Month this month, we need to pay particular attention to crimes against women.
Recent media reports of brutal attacks on women, of which some even resulted in their death, shocked the nation and again highlighted the serious problem of crimes against women.
Crimes against women manifest in many forms - physical, sexual, economical, psychological and emotional - but they all represent a violation of human rights and dignity with lasting effects for the women, as well as the communities they live in.
Although not all incidents make media headlines, these despicable crimes can destroy the promising future of the women who were affected and their families, and invariably irrevocably change the headlines of their life stories.
The scourge of violence against the most vulnerable and defenceless in our society cannot be tolerated.
The policing of these crimes can, however, be a challenge as it often happens behind closed doors and in secluded areas.
It also poses a serious challenge.
For example, when the perpetrators are known to the family and information is withheld so that the family member concerned is not implicated.
Due to the psychological effect of sexual abuse, victims tend to be withdrawn and sometimes prefer not to speak out.
Violence should be dealt with more effectively in the initial stages as it can escalate to a point where lives may be lost. Women are encouraged to report any form of violence against them the first time it happens, so that it can be dealt with efficiently.
The Domestic Violence Act, 1998 (Act No116 of 1998) provides options if one becomes a victim of domestic violence, which include the right to lay a criminal charge if the conduct of the perpetrator constitutes an offence.
Victims can apply for a protection order at the nearest magistrate’s court, or lay a criminal charge and apply for a protection order (a criminal charge is not a requirement to apply for a protection order).
The SAPS remains committed to fighting the scourge of crime against women, but cannot win this battle alone.
Every community member who knows of situations where abuse or violence against any person has taken place needs to assist the police by reporting these crimes immediately.
Family members, friends, neighbours or any other member of the community can report a crime on behalf of the victim and a statement will be obtained later.
Women who are victims of abuse or violence, are encouraged to come forward, break the silence and report these crimes to the police.
Only when we realise that the power to prevent and stop abuse and violence is in our hands, can a dramatic difference can be made in the life of another and the tide turned to create a safe environment for our precious women.
* This piece was written by the SAPS’s Corporate Communication and Liaison Component in consultation with the Division Visible Policing for the
.