Sexual predators lurk in the shadows of society, preying on women and children to satisfy their sordid desires.
However, the South African Police Services (SAPS) is determined to uphold the ends of justice and bring these perpetrators to book.
Newcastle SAPS spokesperson, Captain Jabulani Ncube explains the Family Violence, Child Protection Offences (FCS) Unit in KwaZulu-Natal has recently made tremendous headway in the war against sexual predators.
During the month of September, detectives at the FCS Unit secured 35 terms of life imprisonment, as well as 621 years imprisonment against those accused of sexual-related crimes.
This is through the FCS Unit’s detectives working tirelessly to ensure those accused of heinous crimes were successfully prosecuted.
With victims from as young as five-years-old targeted, the recent successes brought immense satisfaction to the officers. One of the highlights was the conviction of serial rapist who received 32 terms of life imprisonment, following his reign of terror in the Westville area.
Also read: KZN serial rapist sentenced to 7 life terms after a three-year reign of terror
During September, a staggering 242 people were arrested for sexual offences. A total of 23 cases were finalised for the accused to be incarcerated for their deeds. The suspects in these matters face convictions for crimes such as rape, sexual assault, attempted rape, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm and robbery.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula has commended detectives for their hard work in securing these convictions.
“These stiff sentences send a clear message to those who abuse women and children, that we remain committed to fighting gender-based crime on all fronts,” he said.
Also read: Is rape out of control? Are our women and girls safe?
Well done to the detectives involved in the arrests, as they attempt to create a safe environment for communities.
