Midrand police together with Metro police and the Hope Fountain Combined School participated in a march against gender-based violence on women and children on 14 September.
“Women and children are the victims of abuse and domestic violence. Furthermore, children are being sexually assaulted and raped, not only by strangers but also in their own homes by people they may call family,” said Sergeant Matome Tlamela, the spokesperson for social crimes at Midrand Police Station.
The police encouraged abuse victims to break the silence and report abuse cases, big or small. They also called on neighbours to be alert and if they know of someone being abused, they should not turn a blind eye but call the police.
The pupils were warned to stay away from drugs and other illegal substances and focus on their studies and avoid getting arrested. With the rise in popularity of young women having relations with Blessers (older men who give them money), Tlamela said this increases teen pregnancies, school dropout rates, as well as government grant dependencies.
“Financial dependency has forced some women to [tolerate] abuse because they want to raise their children or are seeking financial comfort. Such reasons should not be acceptable, abuse must be dealt with and the police are ready to assist through the Victim Empowerment Centre at the station,” said Tlamela.
Details: Midrand Police Station 011 347 1600/26.
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