Issued by: SA Communication Service
In line with the Government's commitment to stamp out all form of violence in the country, including that against women - I invite all South Africans on August 9 - National Women's Day - to pledge solidarity with abused women who are also victims of violence, by wearing white ribbons.
As domestic and other forms of violence against women continue, we must translate our commitment to ending abuse and violence by supporting various initiatives, including the White Ribbon Campaign initiated by the National Network on Violence Against Women at the Union Buildings, not only a day to celebrate victories so far won, but a day to continue the drive to rid our country of violence and women abuse. Let us realise the reality that women's rights are human rights.
This campaign - although symbolic - has an educational awareness component. It is a challenge - not only to the Ministry of Welfare but also to other sectors of Government, NGOs, youth, political, labour and religious organisations.
To achieve this, we need a high-level policy commitment by Government departments, and more intense training for police and court officials to respond to concerns of domestic violence victims who also require daily counselling.
Safety and Security Commissioner George Fivas's office, today informed me that since May 7, 1995 to date, the bodies of eleven women between the ages of 14 and 35 years, were found murdered in the veld on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Ten of the women have been positively identified. They were all raped and strangled.
A team of top detectives, headed by Captain Beyleveldt of the Brixton Murder and Robbery Unit, is currently conducting an investigation into the relevant cases and is following up all the clues available. The investigation is said to be at a very sensitive stage. Every member of the public with information has been requested to contact Captain Beyleveldt at: 082-8006-786 (cell) or (011) 650-5050 code BY00 (pager).
Issued: GERALDINE FRASER-MOLEKETI, MP Minister of Welfare and Population Development.
Enquiries: BRIAN SOKUTU (Spokesman) Telephone: (012) 328-4600 or 082-8075-395 (cell)
6 August 1996