Women encouraged to report abuse

Tsakane – Women were called to speak out against abuse during a community outreach programme last Wednesday.

Different speakers who lived to tell their tales of abuse shared their experiences.

The event was hosted by Tsakane SAPS in conjunction with Lifeline Tsakane with the aim of empowering women as part of celebrating Women’s Month.

Tsakane police spokesperson Seargent Lerato Mngomezulu says they have identified that women still don’t know their human rights.

“We decided to educate them about their human rights and that every citizen has equal rights.

“No one is allowed to violate another person’s rights regardless of their gender.

“We also urged women to break their silence and to speak out.

“Most of the victims wait until it is too late to seek help and sometimes they get killed by their abusers.

“These abusers are often the people who claim to love them.

“They make them believe that they are nothing without.

“We want women to know that there is no love that comes with abuse. They must stand up and report the perpetrators,” she says.

Mngomezulu says those who want help and protection from the police should visit their local police stations.

“Every police station is equipped with the services of a social worker who will know how to handle the matter.

“Keeping quiet is not an option. Get out of a violent relationship while you still can,” she says.