In May the police in KwaZulu-Natal arrested 234 suspects on several charges relating to GBV.

According to KZN corporate communication and liaison secretary Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo, the charges include rape, kidnapping, abduction, attempted murder, assault with the intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, child neglect, and indecent exposure.

During this period, 26 convictions were secured.

“This included two life sentences and 395 years of imprisonment for the many suspects who appeared in the numerous courts within the province,” Ngcobo said.

According to Ngcobo, more cases are pending in courts, and it is certain that many other suspects will be given sentences that will serve as a deterrent to other criminals in the future.

The KZN SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offence (FCS) units are fighting against GBV perpetrators across the province.

Detectives from the KZN FCS unit urge citizens to be the victims’ support system and report any suspicions of abuse to enable police to investigate and put abusers behind bars.

Ngcobo said society should stop victim-blaming and encourage them to speak up, especially children who are sometimes frightened and helpless.