Gender-based violence (GBV) against women and children has become a pandemic.
The police’s strategic plan on gender-based violence and femicide is aimed at eradicating GBV in communities and to protect victims.
“We are calling upon societies to come and work together with the police to overcome this crime that has become a pandemic,” says Capt. Stephen Thakeng, media liaison officer for the Lejweleputswa police.
Women and children are raped and killed by people who should be protecting them. Some are afraid to report these perpetrators as they fear for their lives, or are financially dependent on them.
“The police would like residents to be aware and report any form of violence against the vulnerable, the elderly, women at large and children. We, as the police, are committed in treating victims of these crimes with respect and dignity, to project empathy and care by removing them from perpetrators to a place of safety,” says Thakeng.
Victim empowerment centres are available at every police station within the Lejweleputswa district, and have been put in place to cater for victims of GBV.
In a recent incident, a 44-year-old Thabong man was sentenced to life in jail for raping his girlfriend, and an additional five years for contravening a protection order served against him.
“Members of the public are urged to break the silence and report such incidents to the police before it is too late. This must be done to help victims and to save lives. We will continue to conduct thorough investigations so as to ensure that all perpetrators are brought to book and face the full might of the law,” he says.
Do not look away when you see gender-based violence. Report incidents to:
Police emergency number: 10111;
Crime Stop number: 08600-10111;
Gender-based violence helpline: 0800-150-150 or
the MySAPS App
