All protocols were observed on Thursday (26 September) as Sir Lowry’s Pass received its very own Victim Friendly Room (VFR). The room was opened to provide victims, especially those affected by gender-based violence, a safe haven and place of refuge.
According to Sergeant Suzan Jantjies, the programme director for the launch, victims of sensitive crimes in the community previously had to travel over 10 km to the nearest facility at Somerset West Police Station.
The room will provide a place the community can access when they wish to speak to someone about a sensitive matter.
Before, they would have to speak to a police officer in the open corridors of the station.
The room will be supported by five volunteers, who will receive victims and lend them a valuable ear. This will hopefully allow the victim to build up enough courage to open a case.
The opening of the VFR began with a meet-and-greet where guests exchanged pleasantries, followed by a warm welcome from Captain Charles Riffel, station commander of the satellite police station in Sir Lowry’s Pass. The event commenced with a prayer by Pastor Cedric Pekeur and a welcome address by Vispol commander for Somerset West police, Lieutenant Colonel JP du Toit. “This is a beautiful place, but crime is still evident,” stated Du Toit, who spoke on why a VFR was so important for Sir Lowry’s Pass.
Riffel read the Police Code of Conduct. Its importance was made clear, especially why it was imperative for the police to serve the community.
The crowd was then addressed by provincial gender-based violence coordinator Lieutenant-Colonel Tasswell Paulse.
He said the Code of conduct gave the police a blueprint for assisting the community, and the VFR was an extension of this.
The keynote speech was made by Brigadier Mnoneleli Magobiyane, who emphasised the need for the police to follow their mandate as well as preserving the victim’s dignity.
He referenced the Constitution, particularly how it laid the rights of victims out, and the room was a way to uphold those rights.
“When victims are ready the facilities should be available,” said Magobiyane.
At 11:00 the room was finally open for communal use and Station Commander of Somerset West, Colonel Jacolize Fleischmann thanked all of the guests for attending. The police’s provincial band ended the festivities with celebratory music.
Former councillor and elder in Sir Lowry’s Pass John Brits said the room was a welcome addition to the community and was pleased that there was a place where victims of gender-based violence could open cases.
“It’s quite nice to be alive to see this,” concluded Brits.
