SAPS continue to combat GBVF

On Monday, November 25, 2024, the 16 Days of Activism Against Women and Children campaign commenced, marking a critical period in the global effort to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide. During this time, the South African Police Service (SAPS) continues its intensified efforts to address and reduce incidents of GBV, with a focus on raising awareness, providing support for survivors, and ensuring stronger law enforcement responses. 

The 16 Days of Activism campaign, which runs until December 10, underscores the urgent need for societal change, stronger protections for women and children, and greater accountability for perpetrators of violence. This initiative is part of a broader global movement aimed at ending violence against women and children.

“The start of the campaign coincided with the second quarter crime statistics release by the Minister of Police, Mr Senzo Mchunu. While the statistics showed a positive downward trend in several categories of crime, the murders of women and children remain high,” said SAPS national spokespersn Brigadier Brigadier Athlenda Mathe 

In his speech, Minister Mchunu highlighted the growing crisis of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in South Africa, emphasizing its status as a national priority crime. He noted the devastating impact of GBV on families and communities and stressed the need for a focused, specialized response. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has recognized the unique challenges posed by GBV and is committed to tackling this scourge through specialized units and interventions. 

Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Investigations Unit (FCS)

The Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Investigations Unit (FCS) was established by the SAPS to enhance its response to GBV. The Detectives division has 176 units nationwide, and this specialised section is essential to combating GBV and related crimes. The FCS detectives are responsible for preventing and thoroughly investigating crimes involving child protection, family violence, and sexual offences in order to provide victims with justice.

FCS-related crimes are categorized into four main groups:

1. Sexual crimes: including incest, rape, and sexual assault.

2. Person-directed crimes: such as assault, grievous bodily harm (GBH), and murder.

3. Illegal removal of a person: including kidnapping, abduction, and missing children.

4. Electronic media-facilitated crimes: including child pornography and the non-consensual filming and sharing of intimate moments.

Forensic Social Workers (FSW)

The FCS unit employs forensic social workers (FSW) in addition to investigators. These experts offer therapy treatments, support psychological and risk assessments, and carry out crisis interventions for victims. FSWs are crucial in addressing emotional, psychological, and behavioural issues because of the profound trauma that many victims endure. Their evaluations are crucial pieces of evidence in legal procedures.

Recent Convictions and Achievements of the FCS Unit

The FCS unit has made significant strides in combating GBVF over the past year. Between April 2023 and September 2024, the unit registered the following successes:

- 16,668 GBVF suspect raids were conducted nationwide.

- 29,150 GBVF perpetrators were arrested.

- 556 individuals were sentenced to life imprisonment.

- 480 individuals received sentences of 20 years or more.

- 998 individuals were sentenced to 10 to 19 years.

- 1,792 individuals received sentences ranging from 1 to 9 years.

These achievements demonstrate the SAPS's ongoing commitment to addressing GBVF with urgency and efficiency.

GBVF Desks and Victim-Friendly Rooms

The SAPS has set up GBVF Desks at each police station to further guarantee that GBVF matters are given priority. These desks guarantee that GBVF cases are handled quickly and with the care they require. Additionally, 1,161 Victim-Friendly Rooms (VFRs) have been designated at two international airports, police stations, contact locations, and satellite stations.

 For victims of interpersonal violence, including gender-based violence, child abuse, and sexual offences, these chambers offer a confidential, non-threatening setting where their statements can be taken without fear or intimidation.

These resources and programs demonstrate SAPS's dedication to building a system that is both responsive and supportive for GBV victims and a powerful deterrence to such acts. The SAPS is stepping up its efforts to combat GBVF and bring victims justice through specialised units, committed resources, and concerted efforts.