| 2024/11/08 |
|
Media Statement
FREE STATE – In an effort to enhance the skills of police officials in handling Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) cases, a comprehensive training session took place at Woodlands in Parys from 6-8 November 2024. During this session, 170 investigators from various branches, including General Detective Services, the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses Unit (FCS), and the Specialized Victim Care (SVC) team, participated in targeted training focused on GBVF-related legislation and best practices. The training provided in-depth coverage of key legislative acts, such as the Sexual Offences Amendment Act, the Domestic Violence Act, the Cybercrimes Act, the Child Justice Act, and the Films and Publications Act. Participants also engaged in sessions on crucial topics like bail considerations, procedures for obtaining statements from children, as well as the legalities surrounding admissions and confessions. Prominent presenters at the session included Adv. Joyce Mokoena, Adv. Michelle Nel, and Mr. Sello Mahloko from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), who discussed recent amendments to the Sexual Offences Act and highlighted the significant role played by the GBVF task team. In addition, Mpho Matombela from the Department of Health elaborated on the role of the Tutuzela Care Centres in providing holistic care to survivors of GBVF, emphasizing the importance of integrated support systems. Specialized training on investigative techniques was provided by Lt. Col. Malgas, who led a session on effective crime scene management to preserve evidence critical to GBVF cases. Lt. Col. Khumalo from the Investigative Psychological Section discussed the role of psychological insights in the investigative process, underscoring the necessity of understanding the psychological dimensions in GBVF cases. A 14-year-old rape survivor, accompanied by her mother, shared her ordeal with group. The perpetrator received a life sentence.
This training forms part of the broader commitment by law enforcement to equip officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond effectively to GBVF and domestic violence cases. By focusing on legislative updates, evidence handling, and survivor-centered approaches, the police aim to strengthen their capacity to deliver justice and support to victims, ultimately working towards a safer society.
Enquiries:
|
|
|
