Pretoria – The acting MEC for Social Development in KwaZulu-Natal, Cyril Xaba, has condemned the recent spate of killings and abuse of women in the province.
In one reported case, Xolile Sibiya of Ntumeni, outside Eshowe, was hacked to death by her lover after she allegedly refused to continue with the abusive relationship.
In another case, Ntombenhle Mndaweni’s body was found buried in a shallow grave in her yard in Bulwer.
Nomonde Biyela of Eshowe was also recently stabbed and her body was dumped in a bush.
“We have had numerous reported deplorable cases of brutality against women in our province recently. Our department is appalled by these cases and we call on communities to wage war against these social ills because the security agencies alone cannot completely address this scourge,” said MEC Xaba.
He said communities need to report cases of abuse to prevent killings and traumatic abuse.
“We have noted with concern that some serious cases of abuse are not attended to because people do not report them to the relevant bodies to deal with them.
“We call on our communities to play an active role in reporting these cases and furnishing the police with the information that could lead to the arrest of perpetrators and their prosecution.”
He said the department has professional social workers throughout the province who are always available to offer support to victims of abuse.
“Our people should know that government is always there to assist them. That is why we have passed a number of legislations such as the Domestic Violence Act, which is aimed at protecting women.
“Through this act, victims of domestic violence are offered the maximum protection from domestic abuse,” said MEC Xaba. – SAnews.gov.za
