Sexual offences, particularly rape against women, children and the elderly have continued to increase but government remains committed to fighting the scourge and ensure that those responsible are arrested and receive the harshest sentences. To achieve this, both police and society have a crucial role to play.
The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa is continuing with this monitoring of service delivery programme of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Units. Today he will be visiting and interacting with the Eastern Cape management. This process is being undertaken to help the Minister understand the challenges that this crucial unit is facing on a daily basis as they execute their duties.
Minister Mthethwa announced the reintroduction of the FCS Units last year in 2010. These are aimed at helping improve the ability of the SAPS to offer specialised investigations to women and children victims of crime. The visit coincides with the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign, which generates awareness of the impact of violence on women, children and society as a whole.
During this year’s campaign, the Minister urges all in society, particularly our police officers, to move beyond raising nationwide awareness on the problem of women and child abuse – but to practically demonstrate their commitment through actions.
Date: Tuesday, 20 March 2012
Venue: Hallyards Hotel, Southwell Road, Port Alfred
Time: Media briefing at 17h00
Members of the media in the Eastern Cape are invited.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Zweli Mnisi
Cell: 082 045 4024
Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa to monitor the Family Violence, Child Protection & Sexual Offences Units in Eastern Cape
