How severe is the crisis of sex-related crimes in Newcastle, considering how dire this issue is across the country? Examining the situation, Newcastle SAPS Spokesperson Lizzy Arumugam elaborated that while she could not divulge the exact number of cases, it is clear that sexual crimes pose a significant problem. She explained that the Newcastle Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit had made multiple arrests for sexual offences in the Amajuba District from January 2024 to September 2024, reflecting the urgent need to address this alarming issue.
Even more disturbing is the revelation that approximately 20% of those arrested were minors.
This concerning statistic indicates that numerous underage boys are involved in the sexual assault and rape of women.
According to the FCS Unit, rape is the most prevalent sexual offence committed against women and young girls in Newcastle.
Reflecting on this troubling trend, Farieda Mia from Child Welfare Newcastle explained that while there has not been a dramatic increase in reported cases of sexual abuse, rape, and other sexual offences, the current situation remains deeply troubling. While she could not provide the exact number of cases that come through the Child Welfare offices, she emphasised that it is worrying, as many rapes, sexual assaults, and child molestation incidents often go unreported. “This is usually when the offender is a family member or there are threats on the victim’s life,” Mia stated.
In light of these revelations, Arumugam noted that perpetrators can be categorised into three distinct groups within the Newcastle area. The offenders who prey on local women and children include the following, according to the Newcastle FCS Unit:
- Strangers: In most cases, assailants are individuals the victims have never encountered before, only meeting them on the day of the crime. These attackers are often encountered on the way from school, town, work, or even a tavern.
- Neighbours: While neighbours play an integral role in a person’s life, the Newcastle FCS cautioned that perpetrators are not always strangers; they can be known to the victim. These offenders exploit their position of trust to prey on unsuspecting victims living nearby. The FCS Unit highlighted that these assailants often intimidate their distraught victims, threatening to kill them and their families while instructing them not to disclose the incidents to anyone.
- Partners: This category involves couples in relationships and spouses. According to the Newcastle FCS Unit and Arumugam, these perpetrators force themselves on their partners despite their partner’s clear refusal. Arumugam observed that these suspects often dismiss their victim’s objections, claiming that their partners are refusing intimacy because they are cheating.
Given the shocking number of offenders who are themselves minors, Mia stated that when examining these horrific crimes, several significant issues contribute to sexual assault and rape, particularly concerning children who fall victim. “Substance abuse and a lack of adult supervision and control play a role in sexual crimes committed against children. In today’s times, children are often difficult to manage, and often put themselves in dangerous situations, especially when going to bars.”
This is a horrifying thought when considering the number of teenagers who frequent local bars in Newcastle over weekends, often without their parent’s knowledge. Mia explained that young girls and women from all walks of life, from Aviary Hill to Osizweni, are affected by this crime.
Delving further into the matter, while the Newcastle FCS Unit claims that rape is one of the most commonly reported sexual crimes against women and children, Mia stressed that child molestation is also a major concern that frequently goes unnoticed and unreported.
It is essential to highlight that it is not only the Newcastle SAPS and Child Welfare who have voiced their concerns about sexual offences in the town. Talha Randeree from the Newcastle Community Policing Forum (CPF) explained that they have noted a significant challenge regarding both rape and domestic violence. However, he pointed out, “One of the main issues we have found is that people are often afraid to report the matter. As the Newcastle CPF, if we are aware of a case of rape or sexual assault, we always advise the victim to open a case and get help as soon as possible.”
In this context, Arumugam stressed the importance of reporting incidents immediately. She urged rape victims or parents whose children have been sexually assaulted to reach out to the police and social workers without delay.
Randeree further emphasised that not only would the Newcastle SAPS ensure that perpetrators face the consequences of their actions, but there are also various organisations and facilities available in town to assist, such as the Newcastle Crisis Centre and Child Welfare Newcastle.
As the Newcastle SAPS, Child Welfare Newcastle, and Newcastle CPF highlight their concerns about sexual crimes, all three organisations are urging individuals to come forward and report any sexual offences. Arumugam shared a cautionary message for all women and girls when they are out in the community, just in case they find themselves targeted by a sexual predator: “Take note of your surroundings, so that you can be able to point out the scene of the crime. One can be fortunate in such a way that when enquiries are made around the area, the assailant may be known or identifiable,” emphasised Arumugam, who added that this could help set the wheels of justice in motion immediately.
Reflecting on the dangers posed by sexual crimes in Newcastle, Randeree remarked that it is crucial to remember that rape is a significant problem throughout South Africa. It is essential to implement social reforms that change the way people view women and children, as well as how sexual crimes are treated within society.
As sexual predators continue to lurk in the shadows of Newcastle, preying on young women and girls alike—and with underage boys becoming part of this tragic problem—what are your thoughts on the situation? We encourage you to share your views in the comment section below.
