Ivory Park station head worried about domestic abuse

The Ivory Park SAPS management is concerned about the never-ending reports of assaults with elements of domestic violence.

The management further appeals to anyone who finds themselves in such a situation to seek help as soon as possible to avoid the possible payment with their own lives.

Brig David Mbongeni Ngcobo, the station commander of the Ivory Park SAPS, said they are worried by the fact that at any given time there is a suspect or two in their holding facilities who is alleged to have assaulted and, in many instances, injured their spouses.

“Because of the environment in which domestic violence takes place, we may end up with many more such cases because of secrecy, as many victims are reluctant to come forward,” said Ngcobo.

“As part of the safety measures, victims and potential victims of domestic violence are urged to, among other things, carry a list of emergency numbers with them to ensure their trusted family members or friends get help for them fast.

“Victims may also have their protection order with them in cases where they have already opened one, and it doesn’t have to be seen by the perpetrator.”

Ngcobo further explained that victims must keep an extra set of house keys and/or car keys in a safe place they have easy access to.

“Keep money in a safe place, so you can use a taxi or bus during such emergencies. In instances where you are planning to leave, do so when the perpetrator is not around to avoid an escalation in confrontation,” said Ngcobo.

He reminded the community of Ivory Park and all of its precincts that any victim of domestic violence has a right to lay a criminal charge with the police if the conduct of the perpetrator constitutes an offence, or to apply for a protection order at the nearest magistrate’s court or do both.

He said families of the victims should support them and never exert pressure on them to drop cases against the perpetrators.