Benoni FCS Unit secures 33 life sentences
Under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Cecile Veldman, the Benoni FCS team includes a unit commander, group commanders, investigators, a forensic social worker, and administrative personnel.
The Benoni Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit has made significant strides in combating gender-based violence and sexual crimes, securing 47 convictions in the past year alone.
These convictions resulted in 33 life terms and a combined 616 years of imprisonment for offenders. The SAPS has commended the unit for its relentless efforts, noting that its results speak volumes in addressing gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Cecile Veldman, the Benoni FCS team comprises a unit commander, group commanders, investigators, a forensic social worker, and administrative personnel. The unit serves six policing precincts within the Ekurhuleni District, including Actonville, Benoni, Crystal Park, Daveyton, Etwatwa, and Putfontein.
Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, spokesperson for the provincial police, highlighted the unit’s national recognition.
“In acknowledgment of their exceptional performance, Benoni FCS was awarded first runner-up in the ‘FCS Unit of the Year’ category during the National Excellence Awards in 2023,” she said.
Among the team’s landmark successes was the conviction of serial rapist Vulike Emmanuel Mpeka. Following meticulous investigation work led by Sergeant Kaizer Mbele, Mpeka was sentenced by the Benoni High Court to three life terms and an additional 110 years for multiple counts of rape and related charges.
The unit’s forensic social worker, Captain Maureen Mohlala, has also played a pivotal role. Over the past year, she assessed 80 child victims, with her expert reports contributing to four life sentences in court.
“As the SAPS marks Women’s Month, the Benoni FCS Unit stands as a powerful example of courage, commitment, and excellence.
These investigators leave nothing to chance, ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice and that women, children, and other vulnerable groups across Ekurhuleni can live in safety, dignity, and peace,” Van Wyk added.
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