Withdrawal of cases a concern for West police
“People are taking advantage of state resources to satisfy their wants or even worse, they open a case only to make a statement to the suspect."
Pretoria West police are concerned about a high number of cases being withdrawn at the station lately.
There has been a lot of cases opened and then withdrawn within a matter of days, and most of these cases related to gender-based violence said police spokesperson Constable Sibongile Vuma.
Last week, the social crime prevention, trauma centre, sector manager, and communication officer of Pretoria West police station visited the Lotus Gardens clinic to inform the public about the crimes happening in the area.
“The main visit was to address the issue of withdrawn cases. We assure the public that police won’t have time for those who come to the station only to withdraw cases shortly after being reported,” Vuma said.
“People are taking advantage of state resources to satisfy their wants or even worse, they open a case only to make a statement to the suspects. As soon as the suspects are arrested, then the victim all of a sudden withdraws charges.
“In some instances, money was offered in return to withdrawing the case,” Vuma said, adding the station was monitoring the opening of false cases.
She said most cases were opened by women.
“The issue of GBV is a nationwide problem and each and every case that is opened, we take it seriously. Women are encouraged not only to open a case but also to visit our trauma unit for help,” she said.
Vuma again warned of perjury, saying those found guilty would be charged and arrested.
READ MORE: ‘Final Covid compliance warning’ to local hospital
In closure, the community was informed of the social worker services rendered by an organisation called Youth for Survival.
“This organisation is based at the Pretoria West police station and consist of friendly social workers and volunteers who are always willing to assist.
“The station’s trauma centre is free of charge and anyone who has related social issues is welcome to visit our trauma unit,” Vuma said.
The responsibility of the police is to ensure that the public is safe and that can only be done if we work closely with the community, she said.
“That’s why we are asking the community to join in the fight against crime. During our awareness campaigns, we hand out pamphlets which emphasise more on domestic violence, gender-based violence and theft,” she said.
She also urged the community to report officers who abused power.
“The community is reminded that no police officer is above the law and if they feel like officers are abusing their power, they should feel free to report them,” Vuma said.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
