Police spokesperson Constable Matome Tlamela said, “A week does not go by without at least one domestic violence complaint. Domestic violence is often thought to only include physical violence, but the acts, behavior and consequences that make up domestic violence vary in nature and frequency.”
Information provided state that it includes sexual abuse by spouse or other, physical abuse or assault, damage to property or anything you value, stalking, economic and emotional abuse, and other controlling or abusive behaviour.
If you are being abused, you can apply for a protection order at a police station or magistrates’ court or lay a criminal charge. An interim protection order can also be issued.
At the scene of an abuse incident the police will:
- Locate and protect the complainant
- Provide a conducive environment to communicate
- Obtain statements from the complainant and witness(es)
- If there is reason to believe that an act of violence has been committed, the perpetrator will be arrested immediately without a warrant
- Search the premises and seize any firearms or dangerous weapons.
Police assistance includes speaking in a language the vicitim understands, taking their statement privately and deciding whether to arrest the abuser and take his or her firearm.
Victims will have access to counselling, medical care and will be advised to find alternative accommodation. A medical officer will collect and record any medical evidence to support a criminal charge. Police will escort the victim home if they need to collect personal belongings.
Should a police officer fail to carry this, they must be reported to the police station commissioner.
If an abuser disobeys a protection order, the police must be phoned immediately. If victims are planning to leave their abuser, they must do so when the partner is not around. They must take their children and essential documents such as IDs and bank cards.
Details: To report domestic violence contact Midrand police on 011 347 1600 or police emergency number 10111.
If you witness domestic violence do you report it or walk away, saying its none of your business? Share your thoughts on the Midrand Reporter Facebook page
