BY REGINALD KANYANE

The Bokone Bophirima Community Safety and Transport Management have put systems in place to fight against the abuse of women and girl children in the         province. MEC Oageng Molapisi called upon women to speak out and seek for help. He said that while addressing hundreds of women during Women in Dialogue against sexual abuse at Tshing Community Hall in Ventersdorp on Friday.

“Most of women are living in abusive relationships, children leaving under abusive conditions but they are silent about this. What we need from them is to break the silence and shout for help. We have put systems in place to fight this pandemic, but our victory solemnly depends on your cooperation and willingness to speak out. We are ready to help you start living a normal and secured life. We are here today with sector departments and all relevant government entities to provide you with tools and ongoing support you need,” said Molapisi.

As part of the build-up towards the Women in Dialogue, he visited schools around the Ventersdorp and encouraged learners to speak out.

Molapisi further visited the three families where one family the 10-year-old girl was raped and murdered, the second family was the one of the 88 year-old woman who was also raped and murdered, and the third family was for the 18 year-old lesbian who was also raped and murdered. He said all cases were recorded last year and some of them are still in court. Molapisi said only one case has been completed so far and the perpetrator was sentenced for two life sentences in prison.

As part of ensuring safety for the child headed, granny headed families and for all women in general, the department installed security gargets to certain identified families. The gargets are linked to different people including the South African Police Services for quicker response in case of emergency.

Women attending the event were also handed over small gargets that they can use to protect themselves when attacked by thugs.

Members of the public experiencing any challenges, non compliance on the road or any possible act of criminality are advised to contact the Departmental Call Centre on this number: 0800 204 992.

-TDN

Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_