The MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Vusi Shongwe, has lauded the Mpumalanga police for the recent arrest of an alleged long-time serial abuser in Mhluzi outside Middelburg.
Shongwe’s reaction came after one of the victims had shared in detail the level of abuse the entire family had been subjected to over the years in a video that went viral on social media. On Friday February 2, the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison released a statement on this arrest.
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According to reports, the family had made numerous attempts to have the suspect put behind bars. He was arrested several times, but was not convicted. He was then rearrested recently.
“Our police have done very well to bring the suspect to book. We believe that the family is now relieved, and all that is required is to ensure that justice is served. Naturally, we expect families to protect and and not harm one another. The story is heartbreaking, and we are therefore calling for increased support to the victims. This will help them on their way to recovery,” said Shongwe.
He condemned the fact that the suspect had been arrested several times without being convicted. He believes this time the suspect will face the full consequences of his abuse.
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Shongwe said he is once more calling on families not to keep quiet when they experience gender-based violence.
“Families must support each other and seek help when experiencing challenges before it is too late. Victims or survivors should not withdraw cases already opened, but rather co-operate with the police and the courts to ensure that the perpetrators are punished. Families should always make use of social workers available throughout the province. There are community-based organisations that assist victims and survivors of abuse.”
