In the weeks leading up to the launch of Edenvale SAPS’ 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign, three suspects were arrested on charges related to abuse.
Edenvale officers arrested the suspects.
Edenvale SAPS spokesperson Sgt Jacob Mashile told the NEWS on November 25 that the suspects were behind bars and police were waiting for feedback from the magistrates presiding over the cases.
Mashile said in one case, two children were seriously injured by their parents.
“In another case, a woman was being abused by a co-worker. He [the co-worker] extorted money from the lady in exchange for sex.
“We are making sure we investigate thoughtfully and we take the suspects to the justice system.”
Edenvale’s campaign was kicked off with an integrated operation as officers took to the streets of Edenvale with placards and pamphlets.
The operation saw the law-enforcement agents create awareness about gender-based violence by handing out informative pamphlets about sexual offences and conducted visible policing operations by stopping and searching vehicles.
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The operation was held on Linksfield Road in partnership with EMPD, the Edenvale CPF (ECPF) and various security companies.
Edenvale station commander Col Sudesh Sookraj said the officers left the station and drove through the CBD to showcase the law enforcement agencies working together.
“We wanted to educate, engage and talk to the community about gender-based violence and the 16 Days campaign. In Edenvale, there was a recent increase in crimes related to domestic violence and against women and children,” said Sookraj.
Mashile said Edenvale police station will continue focusing and prioritising on crimes related to GBV, domestic violence and sexual assault once the campaign has ended.
ECPF chairperson Sheryl Damerell said the Edenvale community does not tolerate abuse.
“Real men and women do not abuse nor exploit others. Let’s not tolerate domestic violence and GBV, let’s be tough and take action,” said Damerell.
Victims and those who know of ongoing abuse are encouraged to speak out and report it to the nearest police station.
Thandi Magoro, a volunteer at Edenvale SAPS Victim Empowerment Centre, said if victims of abuse are too afraid to open a case at the charge office they can ask to speak to her.
“If I am not at the station, complainants can speak to Sgt Mashile who is also the head of the Social Crime Prevention Unit.”
Edenvale Police Station may be phoned on 011 553 8600.
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