CGE concern at the spate of violence and rape against women and children
The Commission for Gender Equality has noted with great concern the increasing spate of violence and rape against women and children during this festive season. The violent rape and killing of a granny in front of her 6-year-old grandchild in Attridgeville, West of Tshwane should be condemned in the strong terms. Worst, the perpetrator is known to the deceased and was given shelter in her yard as a tenant. The Commission is also worried at the death of Noluvo Swelindawo in Khayelitsha allegedly by persons known to her following an altercation at a tavern. Though not yet confirmed, we believe that her being a lesbian might have played a role in such a gruesome killing.
Equally so, the discovery of girls in a brothel by the HAWKS in Krugersdorp who allegedly were held against their will is also worrisome. These girls aged between 14 and 37 South Africans come from: North West, Northern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Gauteng, Limpopo and Eastern Cape. The CGE implores parents, guardians, communities to be on the lookout for any anomalies in their respective areas. All illegal activities should be reported to the police for police to investigate and ensure that the perpetrators of these illegal activities that seek to harm women and children are brought to book.
We call upon parents and guardians to ensure that their children are safe at all times. Parents and guardians must also know the whereabouts of their children.
We urge members of the public who have knowledge of and information on acts of violence, rape and abuse to call our Toll Free Number 0800 007 709 to report such cases.
The CGE will be monitoring these cases as per its court monitoring processes.
The CGE wishes all citizens a restful and peaceful festive season filled with love and joy.
Enquiries:
Javu Baloyi
Cell: 083 579 3306
