Crisis centre flooded with rape

Since August 2014, Newcastle Crisis Centre has handled more than 350 cases, the majority being rape and domestic violence.

“Rape and domestic violence have increased dramatically; the cases have doubled since last year,” claimed Mary Dobbie, director of the crisis centre. She contributed it to poverty, unemployment, substance abuse and broken families.

She said the age groups of rape victims ranged from women in their eighties to children as young as nine.

“It is frightening!” she exclaimed.

Mrs Dobbie was concerned there were women who were unaware of the services available to them.

“Many people do not report domestic violence because they do not know what kind of help is available. Some even think they need to lead this type of lifestyle.”

Mrs Dobbie encouraged domestic violence victims to step forward and report it to the police, the Department of Justice or to members of the health and education system or even the Department of Social Development.

Through reporting domestic violence, the victim will be referred to the crisis centre and find a place of safety. The same applies to rape victims.

“There is no need to lead this type of life,” she emphasised.

Captain Shooz Magudulela, police spokesperson, denied there was an increase in rape and domestic violence.

“Since the establishment of Family Violence Child Protection Sexual Offences Unit, the number of cases went down drastically,” he claimed.

A person’s vulnerability increases when they let their guard down in the following ways:

1. Walking in dark and deserted places at night.

2. If you appear uncertain, for example if you do not know where you were.

3. Leaving doors unlocked and windows open while travelling in a car.

4. If your vehicle breaks down and you have to ask for help.

Captain Magudulela encouraged women and children to be more vigilant and follow the following safety precautions:

1. Be aware of your surroundings.

2. Be alert at traffic lights and stop streets.

3. Walk close to the curb and face the oncoming traffic.

4. Try and keep to well-lit areas or where there are people.

5. Do not hitch-hike or pick up hitch-hikers.

6. Keep a whistle with you – and blow it if you need help.

At home:

1. Do not allow a stranger into your home, even if he is delivering something or providing a service.

2. Ask for an identity document or phone his/her office to check his/her identity.

3. Invest in the best locks and security you can afford.

4. Never tell anyone that you are alone at home.

While safety precautions might minimise the chances of rape, if it were to happen, Captain Magudulela encouraged people not to panic.

“Common sense is your best defence. You cannot always defend yourself and your resistance may cause serious injury. If the attacker is dangerous, cooperate and try to negotiate.”

He added submission was not consent.

“Try and remember what the attacker looks like, his age, race, height, hair colour, scars,tattoos, clothes, voice, jewellery,” Captain Magudulela added.

One should o not bath or change clothes after being raped.

“Keep all the evidence so that it can be used by the police for further investigation.”