Bethlehem - Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Michael Masutha, will this morning officially launch a Sexual Offences Court in Bethlehem, Free State.
The dedicated court, which will be located at the Bethlehem Magistrates Court, is equipped to provide specialised victim-support services, improve the effectiveness of sexual offences matters and improve conviction rates.
Sexual offences courts are aimed at strengthening the fight against sexual violence in the country, especially against women, children and persons with disability.
Last month, during his Budget Speech, Minister Masutha indicated that his department will increase the number of dedicated sexual offences courts as the protection of the rights of vulnerable members of society remains a priority for the next five years.
“By the end of 2015/16, we must have upgraded 57 Regional Courts into Sexual Offences Courts,” said Minister Masutha at the time.
To date, 22 Sexual Offences Courts have been designated. These courts, according to the department, guarantee high conviction rates because of the specialised skills deployed to these courts.
Immediately after the launch of the court, Minister Masutha who is accompanied by his deputy John Jeffery and officials from other government departments will interact with Bohlokong Township community on service delivery issues affecting them. - SAnews.gov.za
