Free State police flag GBV cases withdrawn as major challenge
Police say many gender-based violence cases collapse when victims withdraw charges, prompting expanded awareness campaigns.
A major challenge the police face in tackling gender-based violence (GBV) in the Free State is the high rate at which victims withdraw charges.
“Victims open cases at the police station, but when the suspect appears in court, they want to withdraw. Even families who witnessed the incidents often refuse to testify,” explained provincial police spokesperson Sinah Mpakane to Bloemfontein Courant.
Awareness campaigns expanded
As South Africa observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Bloemfontein Courant spoke to SAPS about their ongoing efforts. Mpakane said a key focus this year is expanding community awareness campaigns to educate residents about the importance of reporting abuse. “GBV happens inside our homes, not on the streets. We also teach communities where to go to apply for protection orders, what they are, and how they help victims,” she noted.
More support rooms at stations
To strengthen their response, SAPS has increased the number of victim empowerment rooms across police stations. These private spaces are designed to make victims feel safer and more comfortable when reporting cases. “We’ve expanded victim empowerment rooms so people don’t have to report their cases in public areas. We’ve also deployed trained officers to support these victim-friendly facilities,” Mpakane added.
Support systems for victims
Since the start of the 16 Days campaign, SAPS has been active in various initiatives and plans to continue hosting at least two awareness drives each week. Mpakane reassured victims that multiple support systems are available. “We take victims to shelters where they will be safe. Suspects are arrested to protect victims. We also encourage them to go to the Thuthuzela Centre to apply for a protection order,” she said.
GBV declared a national disaster
This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent declaration of GBV as a national disaster, following a nationwide march led by Women for Change alongside activists and organisations.
Recent statistics reveal the scale of the crisis: Roughly one in three South African women has experienced physical violence, with 957 women murdered and more than 10 000 rapes reported between July and September 2024 alone.
These alarming figures underscore why GBV has been declared a national disaster, highlighting the urgent need for stronger support services, resources and prevention efforts.
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Read original story on www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za
