PRETORIA - The SAPS says it will not tolerate gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) within its ranks, following the arrest of a senior officer accused of rape and sexual grooming.
The officer, a lieutenant-general, faces allegations that include the sexual grooming of a minor.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says more than 30,000 GBVF suspects have been arrested over the past year, with hundreds convicted between April and June.
Mathe says 648 GBV perpetrators were convicted during the three-month period, with 98 sentenced to life imprisonment.
“It does showcase that as the SAPS, we are at the forefront of fighting the scourge of GBVF,” Mathe said.
However, she described the allegations against the senior officer as disappointing, given the responsibility entrusted to police to protect the public, particularly women and children.
READ: Senior cop in court over rape, sexual grooming allegations
“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Everyone is presumed innocent until they are proven guilty before a court of law. But I think our stance is very firm. We will not tolerate GBVF within our ranks.”
The SAPS says the case against the senior officer is being handled with extra care, given the nature of the allegations and the involvement of a minor.
Authorities have emphasised the importance of protecting the alleged victim’s privacy and confidentiality while investigations continue.