Umzinto GBV survivor lives in fear
The family is furious and confused about the man's release, stating that the court and police have failed them.
A 14-year-old girl from Umzinto, the victim of an attempted rape and stabbing, is living in fear after she found out that her suspected attacker was recently released and is back in the local community.
The suspect was arrested shortly after the crime occurred, and has made court appearances since then, but was released about two weeks ago – during the time South Africans were creating awareness on such cases for 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence.
The following information was received from Saps KZN Media Centre:
Port Shepstone Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) detectives are investigating cases of assault with the purpose to inflict grievous bodily harm and attempted rape following an incident in which a 14-year-old female was allegedly attacked by a 27-year-old suspect on October 26.
Reports indicated that a man wearing a mask attacked the victim during the early hours of the morning, attempting to rape her and when she resisted, he stabbed her in the neck and fled.
The victim was interviewed by the prosecutor and it has resulted in the matter being declined to prosecute.
The family is furious and confused about the man’s release, stating that the court and police have failed them.
“We were told that there was no evidence because he wore a mask, but we are not happy with this investigation,” said a concerned family member.
The family also mentioned that the victim’s younger sibling witnessed the incident and has to live with the trauma as well.
“Many people are scared about this guy returning to our community because he is known to be dangerous,” said the family member.
“The community has supported us during his court appearances, and we all just want justice to be served.”
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