Organisation hosts GBV awareness campaign in Kinross
Women should report all cases of family violence, child abuse and sexual offences to police.
Siphephile Haven, an organisation that supports victims of gender-based violence (GBV), hosted a sexual offences and GBV awareness campaign in Kinross on April 29.
The campaign brought together various stakeholders who raised concerns about the increasing number of sexual offences and GBV cases in the area.
Some of these incidents were linked to activities around liquor outlets.
Kinross Police spokesperson, Constable Cebisile Mlambo, highlighted the importance of such initiatives, noting that police frequently deal with cases of sexual assault and GBV.
“As police, we appreciate the organisation’s efforts to raise awareness and educate the community,” said Mlambo.
“We also urge women to refrain from opening false rape cases because of ulterior motives.
“In some cases, women open cases and later withdraw the cases after reaching monetary agreements with the suspects.”
She further emphasised the importance of taking children’s reports of abuse seriously.
“Parents should not dismiss allegations made by their children. If they are unsure, they should bring them to the police, where trained officials can help.
“It is also a great concern that some women protect perpetrators because of financial gain. This is against the law and can lead to prosecution.”
Sergeant Palesa Tsoaelo from the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit encouraged the community to report all incidents of sexual abuse.
She assured the community that the FCS Unit is committed to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
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