Police have urged community members and victims of domestic violence to refrain from withdrawing cases of abuse against their perpetrators.
This plea was made by the Rabasotho-based police spokesperson, Const Patricia Mgijima, during the Say No To Domestic Violence campaign held last Thursday at the Rabasotho Community Hall.
This campaign formed part of the nation-wide drive against women and children abuse.
The campaign was attended by the Social Crime Prevention Unit and a number of non-profit orgainsations (NGOs), such as Nicro, Men’s Forum, Faith Based Organisation, WASP, LGBTI and POWA.
Addressing the proceedings, Mgijima said: “It is time to break the silence and start reporting cases of abuse and domestic violence. You don’t have to die alone and in hiding when there is help available for you.
“The community can also play a role by informing police or these NGOs about any ongoing form of abuse against women and children.
“But, most importantly, we would like to urge the community and the victims to stop withdrawing cases because it gives the perpetrators the power to continue abusing women and children,” appealed Mgijima.
She said the police now have victim-friendly war rooms where victims of domestic violence can be interviewed and counselled.
“There are a number of remedies that can be applied by victims of domestic violence, such as applying for a protection order and to lay a formal charge. But once again, please refrain from withdrawing such cases,” said Mgijima.
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