Community Safety
With regard to the article on page 1 of the Cape Times, dated 17 January 2022, “Bracken-fell rape accused officer set to appear in court today”:
(1) (a) What measures are contained in the “internal disciplinary process(es)” that are instituted against police officers who perpetrate sexual offences and (b) how is the SAPS making itself more accessible for women to report crimes safely and without fear of further crimes being perpetrated against them by the police;
(2) (a) how many cases of sexual offences committed by police officers in the province were reported in 2021and (b) what are the details of these cases;
(3) whether the SAPS received complaints from the public of SAPS officials refusing to open cases and take the statement of members of the public who wish to report sexual offenses; if so, what are the relevant details?
(1) (a) The SAPS Disciplinary Regulations of 2016 is applicable to all employees that are alleged to have committed misconduct.
(b) All SAPS stations have victim friendly facilities. There are six Thuthuzela care centres in the Western Cape where victims can be assisted without going to a police station. Should any victim be in immediate danger, they can be moved to a place of safety.
(2) (a) 19
(b) Rape: 12
Sexual Assault: 7
(3) Yes, there was 1 complaint received.
There was a case docket opened and disciplinary action was taken.
