Don’t just talk about it on 16 Days of Activism
MORNINGSIDE – It is reported that the number of sexual offences cases reported to the Sandton Police Station increased by 70% in the second quarter of 2021 compared to 2020.
The presence of gender-based violence (GBV) is still on the rise in our country and though it’s not getting the attention it needs, members of Deboras and Esthers organisation teamed up with the Sandton Police Station in hopes of redirecting the spotlight on the serious criminal offence.
In the latest crime statistics, the number of sexual offences cases reported to the Sandton Police Station increased by 70% in the second quarter of 2021, compared to the same period in 2020. These sexual offences include rape, sexual assault, contact sexual offences and attempted sexual offences.
Officials from the Sandton Police Station were amongst the people who shared their thoughts on the social pandemic that the country is still facing. Captain Philmont Vhongani Moleya, Sergeant Raisibe Mokwena and corporate communications officer Captain Bheki Xulu all played huge roles in the discussion with Deboras and Esthers which occurred on February 12. Deboras and Esthers are said to be a movement that focuses on empowering and educating women through discussions.
“Gender-based violence does not categorise itself under one specific social status: In townships, you see victims with visible scars and in areas such as Sandton, victims are still faced with the same problem but it’s hidden behind the high walls of big houses, expensive makeup and fancy cars,” said Xulu.
Deboras and Esthers member Paula Gibbs, who was the organiser of the gender-based violence discussion expressed how she makes an impact in the world through her stories and words.
“I work with children and address serious issues that need to be discussed before it gets too late. Sitting and complaining about what the government is not doing right is not going to change anything but getting up every morning and touching the lives of our future leaders will,” said Gibbs.
“In my discussions with teenagers and young adults, I try to warn them about the dangers of being trapped in an abusive relationship and try my best to encourage them to love themselves. We want to correct and undo the damages. It is possible all we need is to unite as one.”
If you see anything suspicious in your area, don’t hesitate to contact the Sandton Police Station on 011 722 4272 or CrimeStop on 08600 10111.
