As we enter the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children the latest crime statistics revealed shocking trends in Kraaifontein where the number of sexual offences have nearly doubled.
The second-quarter crime statistics covering the months of July to September was released by police minister Bheki Cele last week.
In only three months 67 sexual offences were reported in Kraaifontein, indicating an increase of 86% from the same period last year and placing Kraaifontein in the seventh position on the top 30 list for this crime nationwide.
A total of 52 rapes were reported, 73% more than last year. Ten sexual assaults (100% more); four attempted sexual assaults and one contact sexual assault were reported – numbers that don’t reflect the real state of affairs as this crime remains underreported.
Campaign launched
On Friday Kraaifontein Police Station launched its 16 Days of Activism for no Violence against Women and Children in a women-only road block on Botfontein Road where police, traffic and law enforcement officers joined forces.
“The emphasis was on all violence against women and children. We distributed 2 000 pamphlets at the road block and in malls in Kraaifontein, urging women to report crimes committed against them,” says WO Louise Strydom.
“If the crime is not reported to the police the police cannot assist with an investigation to arrest perpetrators,” she says.
Volunteers at the police station are trained to assist victims of sexual crimes or domestic violence.
Victim support
“These volunteers will be able to debrief the victim and then refer her to a social worker for more counselling.
“They will also support the victim with their journey in undergoing a medical examination in hospital, court proceedings as well as finding a temporary place of safety. But the police can’t do anything if the crime is not reported,” she says.
According to her rape remains under reported in Kraaifontein..
“It is a problem and crime statistics are not an accurate reflection of the actual number of rapes committed. Many women choose not to report rape or domestic violence, especially in the higher income households,” she says.
The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.
