Police reopens victim support centre

SECUNDA – Police members, residents and businessmen attended the official opening of the Curamus Victim Support Centre at Secunda Police Station on Wednesday, 20 November.

Curumas means “God cares, we care” and police members took hands with residents and businessmen to reopen this centre.

Thanks to businesses, police members were able to decorate a room with beds, tables and all they needed for the new centre.

Mr Johnny Swarts, chairman of sector policing in Secunda, welcomed everyone at the function and Capt Johan Smit opened with Scripture and prayer.

He read from 1 Pet 4:7 and urged people to serve as Jesus Christ was a servant and died on the cross for everyone.

“We are able to open the victim support centre thanks to people who stood up and said: ‘I am willing’.

“These are people who answered the call when God asked: ‘Who can I send?’,” said Capt Smit.

Sgt Jenny Joubert said: “It is time to take hands and make a difference.

“This centre is open for everyone who was touched by crime and for people of all ages, races and genders.”

Capt Lizzie Koekemoer spoke to the guests about the different types of abuse and rape.

“Never turn your back on a child who has been abused.

“If you suspect a child is being abused, report it to the police, you might save his life,” said Capt Koekemoer.

She urged women not to bath after they have been raped.

“If you bath, all the evidence is gone, rather go to the nearest police station immediately.

“You can report a rape case in your own language.

“Do not protect rapists and do not withdraw the case when the rapist offers you money.

“Bring your son up to be a real man, real men do not rape,”said Capt Koekermoer.

Capt Joy Smit thanked everyone for their support as well as the sponsors and said: “This centre will be a blessing and a success.”

Contact Secunda Police Station at 017 624 2022/06.