Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) took the issue of gender-based violence to another level when they marched to Vosman Police Station to have their voices heard.
EFF members gathered at the station to ask questions and to get clarity in some issues they raised about gender-based violence.
They were at the station on Thursday, November 26, and they were met by Colonel Moses Maepa and other police officials.
Colonel Maepa explained to them about the different cases; he said rapes, murder, sexual assault, assault, domestic violence and other cases they are busy investigating.
He added to say that as police officers they have to investigate all elements of a crime.
They investigate an unlawful act, look at the intention and the action.
“As police, we will then start with the investigation once a case has been opened and collect evidence as soon as possible. In rape cases, we have a special kit to put all the evidence for forensics and to compare semen found on the victim. We also need witnesses to make statements and sometimes people are reluctant to come forward and assist the police. Some incidents happened in public places while others are in private places.”
Colonel Maepa also encouraged people to come forward to assist the police as sometimes they meet challenges while investigating cases of gender-based violence.
He indicated that it isn’t only girls who are raped; boys are sodomised as well.
He also urged people not to look away because next time they might be victims of crime.
“We have a special unit for gender-base cases; let’s help each other to stop gender-based violence. Things happen in our communities and are committed by our brothers, fathers and uncles. Let’s protect our children against perpetrators of crime,” added Colonel Maepa.
Members of the EFF promised that they will join hands with the police to fight crime.
Later a candlelight ceremony was held in honour of all those victims of gender-based violence crimes.
