Bekkersdal and Randfontein Police Stations
During recent oversight visits to various police precincts across the province, it has become clear that domestic violence is an increasing concern in most of our communities.
Following requests from Bekkersdal and Randfontein residents, I submitted questions to Gauteng Community Safety MEC, Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane, to establish the state of such cases in these areas.
The replies show a high number of cases with very low conviction rates. In Randfontein alone, 511 domestic violence cases were reported in 2014/15 with only 13 successful convictions, while in Bekkersdal, there were no successful convictions despite 155 reported cases in the same year.
Sadly, these two police stations reflect the state of domestic violence across the province with community after community raising their concerns with us.
Successful Conviction
A successful conviction is largely reliant on good police work and many Gauteng residents are not receiving this service from the officers assigned to their safety.
Domestic violence tears apart not only families but the very fabric of our society.
I will be writing to MEC Nkosi-Malobane to discuss ways in which domestic violence policing can be strengthened.
Those who suffer abuse at the hands of those closest to them deserve the closure and safety that a successful conviction brings.
Media Enquiries:
Michele Clarke MPL
DA Gauteng Spokesperson: Community Safety
060 558 8309