’Plain sexual assault cases top in crime stats

While November 25 is known in many parts of the world as “Black Friday”, heralding the start of the holiday shopping season, for South Africans it was a Black Friday in the real sense of the word as it marked the start of the 16 Days of Activism For No Violence Against Women and Children campaign – and no abatement in the number of reported sexual violence cases as last week’s released crime statistics show.

Minister of Police Bheki Cele present the stats on Wednesday November 23, reflecting on crimes reported to the SAPS from July 1 to September 30 this year.

In the Western Cape, the number of rape cases compared to the same period last year increased by 224 cases – from 1 009 cases in 2021 to 1 233 cases in 2022. Sexual assault cases have also seen an increase; from 340 cases in 2021 to 432 cases this year.

Mitchell’s Plain SAPS rank first in the top 30 police stations for the number of sexual assault cases reported in this period –18 – and Lentegeur SAPS rank fourth with 12 cases reported.

• In other crimes, Mitchell’s Plain police station is 7th for attempted murder with 24 cases in 2021, increasing to 44 cases in 2022.

• Mitchell’s Plain police station is 11th for common robbery by 19 increased cases, with 78 in 2021 and 97 in 2022.

• Contact crime puts Mitchell’s Plain police station in 14 place, with 683 cases in 2021 and 789 cases in 2022, an increase of 106 cases.

• For arson Mitchell’s Plain police station is in 5th place – increasing the number of cases by five cases from 2021 to 2022. Lentegeur police station is in 11th place, showing an increase by 2 cases from 2021 to 2022.

• For malicious damage to property, Mitchell’s Plain SAPS is first; increasing by 20 cases from 2021’s 233 cases to 253 cases in 2022.

• Mitchell’s Plain SAPS ranked 30 for burglary at residential premises – increasing by 41 cases in 2022, from 102 cases in 2021 to 143 cases in 2022.

• Mitchell’s Plain SAPS is in 19th place for the number of burglary theft out of or from motor vehicle in 2022 with 162 cases, an increase of 27 cases from 2021’s 135 cases.

Alvina Spike, pastor and founder of New Creations Outreach, a non-profit organisation launched in 2018, that works with victims of gender-based violence, is a survivor of gender-based violence.

She was raped at 15, and twice later on in her life by people she knew. “I was silenced for eight years. My help came from the Lord and religious leaders who were placed on my path,” she said.

“I would like to see survivors rise above their circumstances. Often they have to go back due to a lack of resources such as shelters, and are affected by the lack of availability of rape kits and evidence, employment, counselling services as follow-ups are not being done,” she said.

“To any woman going through heartache and pain, start choosing yourself first – start believing that you are more than what your abuser tries to make you see,” said Ms Spike.

A school teacher at a school in Beacon Valley, who did not want to be identified but whose identity is known to the Plainsman, said his pupils are heavily affected by sexual violence in their homes.

“I’ve experienced, through their testimonies, pupils being affected by sexual violence and have it affect their school work. They’re often referred to our school counsellor or referred to SAPS if need be. They deserve more help in the system of law – for more assistance. Most times these pupils are not protected as they need to go home to the very place they are or were abused in.”

The teacher said pupils often fear coming forward but he encourages them to be strong, and if it is safe for them to do so, to open a case and get the best counselling.

Rochelle Philander, director of Safeline Child Abuse Treatment and Prevention Centre, said Covid-19 stripped many communities from the last feeling of safety.

“Unemployment and overcrowded homes caused devastating experiences for many. Some of the reasons for not reporting rape or sexual assault would be fear and lack of faith in the justice system,” she said.

Minors often portray behavioural symptoms; they often disclose to someone they trust, adults often seek assistance from the nearest police station to report it. Adults who are reluctant to seek help are often motivated by people they trust to report the case.

Teachers should become familiar with reporting procedures in the school environment and communities become familiar with organisations who are able to assist, said Ms Philander.

“There are a myriad of things we as a community can do to do better. However, to build the trust of our communities again we have to create a more victim-friendly environment at the local police stations,” she said.

Mareldea Sonday, operation manager for Mitchell’s Plain Network Opposing Abuse, said they are constantly raising awareness. Even though it is highlighted and receives much attention, people still do not know their rights and responsibilities, she said.

“There are many opportunities for people to take control of their situation. Survivors need a lot of support, they need to know they are not alone and there is help – they just have to reach out,” said Ms Sonday.

She said shools must implement life skills programmes for parents, and keep them accountable to attend.

For more information or help, contact the Mitchell’s Plain Network Opposing Abuse on 021 376 0445 or 0459 or email admin@mpnetwork.org.za

Safeline can be contacted for help on their toll-free number on 08000 35553.

For more information or help from New Creations Outreach SA, call 067 158 0807 or follow their Facebook page for more information.