BY NELILE NXUAMLO ( INTERN)
MBABANE – The Royal Eswatini Police Service has intensified efforts to combat sexual violence, leading to the arrest and charging of more than five male suspects across various parts of the country within the past week. The arrests follow reported rape cases involving women and minors, as police continue to enforce the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act.
According to information sourced from the REPS social media page, the operations were carried out in multiple regions, including Mafutseni, Big Bend, Lubulini, and Siteki, with suspects apprehended in connection with separate incidents reported in those areas.
Police indicated that the arrests form part of ongoing efforts to protect communities and ensure justice for victims, while emphasising that all suspects remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Authorities also continue to safeguard the identities of victims to protect their dignity.
In Mafutseni, officers arrested a suspect following a reported incident involving a minor, while in Big Bend, two individuals were taken into custody in connection with separate cases reported within a short period. Investigations in both instances were supported by timely reporting and community cooperation.
Further progress was recorded in Lubulini, where police tracked down and arrested a suspect linked to an earlier reported case, demonstrating continued follow-up on outstanding investigations. In Siteki, several suspects were also apprehended in connection with multiple incidents, most involving young victims, highlighting the urgency of protecting vulnerable groups.
According to information sourced from the REPS social media page, the police service continues to take a firm stance against sexual offences and has urged members of the public to report such crimes promptly to enable swift action.
All suspects have since appeared before the courts, reflecting ongoing progress in handling such cases through the justice system.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining safety and encouraged communities to remain vigilant, report suspicious behaviour, and support efforts aimed at eliminating gender-based violence.
The recent developments emphasize the country’s continued focus on strengthening law enforcement response and fostering collaboration between police and communities to create a safer environment for all.
#REPS #StopGBV #ProtectTheVulnerable #EswatiniSafety #CommunityPolicing #JusticeForAll
