Ladysmith KZN: On Monday (September 7), Alfred Duma Local Municipality Mayor Vincent Madlala and uThukela District Municipality Mayor Siphiwe Mazibuko visited the family of an eight year old rape victim in Matiwaneskop. Various stakeholders – including uThukela Acting Cluster Commander Brigadier Bantham, Elandslaagte Station Commander Capt Khanyi, uThukela District Speaker Cllr Strydom and Ward Cllr Nkephu – accompanied the two mayors.
The main objective of the visit was to give support to the family following the traumatic incident. Brigadier Bantham said she knew very well what the family was going through, drawing from her own experience.
“Some victims are not lucky enough to survive and are killed in the process. In August, which is known as Women’s Month, we were preaching about ending gender-based violence (GBV). We also call for the introduction of GBV lessons in schools. Police alone are not able to fully carry out their duties if the public is not willing to assist them. We are here to give support to the family during this trying period,” said Mayor Mazibuko.
Mayor Madlala commended the police for acting swiftly to apprehend the perpetrator of this heinous crime. He urged all stakeholders to work together to make sure that justice is served for the victim.
Also read : Ladysmith KZN: Parolee appears in court for rape
The eight-year-old girl was raped on Monday, August 31, while she was on her way home from school.
The 30-year-old suspect was arrested shortly after the crime was committed and his next appearance in the Ladysmith Magistrate’s Court will be tomorrow (Friday, September 11).
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