BY LINDELWA MYENI
MBABANE– The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) is urging victims and witnesses of sexual abuse, including men, to report cases to the police, stressing that sexual violence should not be suffered in silence.
Gabsile Dlamini from the REPS Domestic Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (DCS) Unit in Lobamba said being in a relationship does not remove the need for consent before sexual intercourse.
“Even if you are partners, ask first and make sure you are on the same page,” Dlamini said.
She explained that rape is an unlawful sexual act and may occur when sexual intercourse involves a person below the age of 18, an unconscious or intoxicated person, or a person with an intellectual disability who is unable to give valid consent.
Dlamini warned that taking advantage of people who are unable to consent is a crime, urging anyone who has experienced sexual activity without their consent to report the matter to the police.
She also made a special appeal to men who experience sexual abuseto come forward, assuring them that they should not fear being laughed at or ridiculed when reporting their cases.
Victims reporting at police stations are advised to ask for the Domestic Violence department, commonly known as the SODV department.
The DCS Unit reiterated that sexual abuse reports are handled with confidentiality, sensitivity and professionalism, encouraging victims and witnesses to come forward so that perpetrators can be brought to justice and affected persons receive the necessary support.
#REPS #DCS #ConsentMatters #EndSexualViolence #ChildProtection
(Courtesy Pic)
