GBVF continues to haunt Midrand streets and homes
The latest GBVF-related tragedy in Noordwyk has left many questioning whether enough is being done to protect vulnerable residents, as community activists warn that without education, awareness, and community-driven solutions, these incidents may continue to rise.
In November 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa formally classified gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) as a national disaster, marking a significant shift in how South Africa responds to one of its most persistent social crises.
The declaration, driven by sustained pressure from civil society organisations, was intended to fast-track the allocation of resources, strengthen support systems for survivors, and improve coordination between law enforcement and the justice system.
Read more: Common assault tops crime stats in Midrand complexes
Rather than introducing new emergency powers, the classification focuses on accelerating funding flows and ensuring quicker processing of GBVF-related cases through the courts.
Despite these measures, GBVF continues to cast a long shadow across communities. Recent statistics presented at the Midrand Police Complex Forum reveal that gender-based violence remains one of the most pressing challenges in the area, mirroring a broader national trend.
The urgency of the crisis was highlighted by a recent incident in Noordwyk, where the body of a young woman was discovered wrapped under a bed inside a house.
The discovery followed law enforcement intelligence about a suspected strangulation incident that allegedly took place in the early hours of April 18. The police have since arrested three suspects.
Speaking to Charlene van Onselen, a committee member of the Noordwyk Residents Association and community activist, she said the incident reflects a deeper, ongoing problem.
“We condemn this senseless murder in the strongest possible terms. Violence against any individual is unacceptable, and the continued vulnerability of women to gender-based violence remains one of the most urgent concerns facing our communities,” she said.
Van Onselen stressed that no circumstance justifies abuse or violence, as she plans for a peaceful protest in mid-May with more details to follow.
“No circumstance justifies abuse, brutality, or the taking of a life. No victim is ever responsible for the violence committed against them. As residents and community stakeholders, we are committed to fostering a suburb where safety, accountability, and human dignity are non-negotiable.”
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She added that GBVF often occurs at the hands of someone known to the victim, including intimate partners, family members, or acquaintances, making awareness and early intervention critical.
“Abuse is not always physical in its early stages,” she added. “Warning signs include controlling behaviour, intimidation, verbal humiliation, threats, jealousy, financial restriction, and isolation from family or friends. Recognising these early signs can help prevent escalation.”
Van Onselen also highlighted the barriers many survivors face in speaking out, including fear, trauma, shame, and financial dependency, which often keep victims silent.
“Community safety depends not only on law enforcement but also on recognising harmful behaviour early, refusing to normalise abuse, and ensuring that people know where help can be found. Breaking the silence remains one of the strongest tools in preventing further harm.”
*Residents are encouraged to keep the following verified emergency and intervention services accessible:*
- South African Police Service Emergency Response Line for immediate danger, assault, threats, or criminal reporting: 10111
- National Gender-Based Violence Command Centre: 24-hour national counselling, referral, and psychosocial support service operated by the Department of Social Development: 0800 428 428
Dial *120*7867# on your phone keypad.
SMS for persons with disabilities: 31531 - People Opposing Women Abuse (Powa) Legal advice, counselling, protection order support, and shelter referrals: 011 591 6803
- STOP Gender Violence Helpline National support line: 0800 150 150
- Legal Aid: Toll-free Advice Line 0800 110 110
- Women’s Shelter Helpline: 0800 001 005
- Human Trafficking: 0800 222 777
- Lifeline South Africa National crisis counselling and emotional support line: 0861 322 322
- South African Depression and Anxiety Group Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567
- South African Depression and Anxiety Group 24-hour Mental Health Support SMS line: 31393
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