The Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Desk at South African Police Service (SAPS) stations was established to provide specialised support to victims of abuse and ensure that cases are handled with sensitivity, urgency, and professionalism.
Communications officer at the SAPS Tongaat, Captain Jasanathan Naidoo, said: “At SAPS Tongaat, the GBV Desk is more than an entry point for reporting crimes. It is a lifeline for victims and a critical tool in the fight against gender-based violence, offering specialised, compassionate, and coordinated support. It helps restore dignity, strengthen justice, and helps build safer communities.”
The GBV Desk offers a range of services, including assistance in cases of domestic violence, sexual offenses, child abuse, and other GBV crimes, as well as counselling, trauma support, and referrals for medical and legal services. These services are conducted by trained officers who listen, support, and act with confidentiality in a safe and private reporting environment to reduce trauma and stigma, and provide ongoing support and follow-up for victims.
Awareness events are ongoing to sensitise the community about their rights so that they can take advantage of the services offered. At Tongaat, a resident social worker, Thandy from Lifeline, is available to provide care, guidance, and emotional support to victims.
The SAPS and the community can work together to build safer, more respectful, and violence-free homes and neighbourhoods. Reporting GBV is crucial in protecting rights and helping to stop violence.
Report GBV by dialling 10111 or calling the Tongaat SAPS direct line on 032 944 9900.
