The urgent need to address gender-based violence and safeguard the lives of women and children in the Newlands East community is being highlighted following the horrific discovery of the body of a 15-year-old, who was allegedly stabbed to death and left in a dense bush in Dorado Cresent in Newlands East on 8 August.
In the wake of the recent heart-wrenching incident that unfolded, PRO for Newlands Community Police Forum (CPF), Aadel Kara, told the Springfield Weekly Gazette that their thoughts turn not only to the victim’s family but also to the broader implications this holds, especially as this incident occurred a day before the public holiday dedicated to the women of South Africa.
He said this tragic event starkly underscores the urgent need to address gender-based violence (GBV) and safeguard the lives of women and children in the community.
“The Newlands CPF, in partnership with SAPS Newlands East, remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a safer environment. Through increased patrols, community engagement and school-centred initiatives, we’re actively working to combat such senseless acts. Let us remember that every effort counts in our collective mission to eliminate GBV and create a society in which all women and children can thrive without fear,” said Kara.
Newlands CPF was unable to speculate or disclose any information regarding the progress made thus far as an ongoing investigation is being conducted by SAPS Newlands East.
“Colonel Mbele has done remarkable things for SAPS Newlands East and the station is running well under her command. We kindly request the public to await further information that will be released by SAPS Newlands East. It is important to note that SAPS is diligently working around the clock to resolve this matter. If members of the public possess any relevant information, we invite them to consider reaching out to SAPS Newlands East or providing details through a tip-off to Newlands CPF.”
Kara said that the CPF wholeheartedly encourages community members to make use of the MySAPS app, an invaluable tool for reporting suspicious activities and submitting anonymous tips.
“This application is accessible across various mobile devices via the App Store. It is essential to recognise that the task of aiding and safeguarding the community doesn’t rest solely on the shoulders of SAPS or CPF; rather, it’s a shared responsibility that involves the entire community coming together,” said Kara.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda, Provincial SAPS spokesperson, said that a murder case is currently being investigated by SAPS Newlands East.
“A case of murder is being investigated following an incident in which a 15-year-old girl was found dead on Tuesday, 8 August, at Dorado Crescent. She sustained stab wounds on the body. The motive for the killing is unknown,” said Col Netshiunda, adding that the victim was identified by her family on 10 August.
Thevan Dhavraj, director of the South African Outreach and Emergency Services, said the organisation sends their condolences, thoughts and prayers to the bereaved family of the fallen angel.
He said: “We, as a GBV team, are outraged at the number of females losing the fight against GBV and domestic violence. It is Women’s Month, women are being celebrated across the country and yet we are still losing the struggle. I believe that not enough is being done to educate our females on their rights. Departments are failing our women, leaving them vulnerable and sexual offenders are getting off lightly. What is being done to safe guard our women and children?”
He added that it is unfortunate that the SAPS does not handle protection order matters seriously. “A female has to keep going back to court before she can get her interim order changed to a protection order. There isn’t enough workshops to teach our women how to stand up and speak out,” he said.
If anyone has any information regarding the 15-year-old, who was killed in Dorado Cresent, Newlands East, they may contact SAPS Newlands East on 031-574-5560; Crime Stop on 08600-10111 (toll-free) or use the MySAPS app. Tip-offs may be anonymous.
