Over 2,200 Suspects Arrested for GBV Offences in August

Police have arrested more than 2,200 suspects linked to gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) during August, which is annually observed as Women’s Month.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), 2,284 suspects were taken into custody for offences including rape, sexual assault, abduction, and attempted rape.

Authorities also highlighted significant convictions, among them the sentencing of Mozambican national, Phethe Simiao, to two life terms for the rape and murder of six-year-old Amantle Semao in Soweto.

National police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk said specialised Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) units continue to play a crucial role in tackling such crimes.

“There are 176 FCS units across the country, supported by serial and electronic crime investigation units. These teams are mandated to investigate, trace and arrest perpetrators of sexual and person-directed crimes. These successes reflect SAPS’ unwavering commitment to protecting women, children and other vulnerable members of society,” Van Wyk stated.

Police have urged communities to continue working with law enforcement to combat GBV and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.