Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, says it is concerning that individuals tasked with protecting vulnerable groups are among those arrested for gender-based violence (GBV) offences.

Ntshavheni briefed the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet Lekgotla in Pretoria and highlighted arrests made between 5 and 11 May, including a police officer from the SAPS Training Academy in Pretoria and a traditional leader from KwaZulu-Natal, both facing rape allegations.

“Amongst those arrested on allegations of rape from the 5th – 11th of May [are] a SAPS trainer and a chief from KZN which [is] very unfortunate. Because these two categories of people are entrusted with protecting communities. And a 13-year-old boy in Mpumalanga,” says Ntshavheni.

Police statistics show that 224 people were arrested for rape during the period. Additionally, 148 suspects were arrested for attempted murder, 256 for drug dealing, 2,841 for drug possession, and 86 stolen or hijacked vehicles were recovered.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni briefs the media on outcomes of cabinet meeting