Issued by: The SA Police Service
PRETORIA: 1997-04-03
A high-level investigation will be conducted into allegations that a rape victim was humiliated and subjected to other highly insensitive behaviour at Pretoria Central Police station.
The SAPS has prioritised crimes against women - as well as support for crime victims - and professional and sensitive conduct is therefore expected of SAPS members at all times.
This is especially true in the traumatic crime of rape and it is especially repellent that rape victims be subjected by Police to any further trauma after their initial ordeal.
If allegations that Police officials dragged their heels in dealing with her case and even laughed at her are substantiated, harsh action will be taken, including possible suspension or dismissal.
All SAPS officials must note that I yesterday announced SAPS restructuring to adapt to new policing priorities, one of which is crimes against women and victim support.
These are not empty official statements but are policy initiatives which must be implemented at the coal face of policing - especially at Police stations.
I have tasked Deputy National Commissioner Zoli Lavisa to oversee this investigation and report to me personally with recommendations.
INQUIRIES: DIRECTOR JOSEPH NGOBENI: 082 800 3672