Hard-working police feel that the withdrawal of cases by some victims, including those of gender-based violence (GBV), is a step back from justice.
This comes after social media users, including influential ones, tagged and accused police of not doing their work when a victim cried out for help after being allegedly abused.
A social media influencer (known to The Star) tagged national SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe to a post from another X user who asked why police had not arrested a perpetrator who allegedly assaulted a victim.
The first user created a thread where she wrote: “How is this not getting the attention it requires? Should this woman die first before something is done?”
The influencer wrote: “Ausi @AthlendaM re kopa thuso (we are asking for help).
“That monster needs to be in jail by today! All his details are on the thread.”
The face of the victim, who cannot be named at this stage, was circulated all over social media. Her face is swollen and badly bruised, while her eyes can barely open.
This prompted police to respond to social media posts on Tuesday.
Mathe confirmed that the victim had withdrawn two cases and also voluntarily come out of a place of safety.
“SAPS has three cases on the system. Case one: the victim opened a case of assault GBH (domestic violence) on 29 November. The suspect was arrested on 30 November and the case was withdrawn after consultation with the victim by a senior prosecutor, due to successful mediation between the two parties.
“Second case: assault common (domestic violence) was opened by the victim. She withdrew the case (submitted a withdrawal statement) after consultation with the prosecutor, the case was nolle prosequi on 2024/01/29.
“Third case of rape was opened on 12 May 2024, the suspect was arrested on 16 May 2024 and appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate Court. The accused was granted bail on 27 May 2024. Victims and children were placed in a place of safety. The victim booked herself out of the place of safety. Case postponed for 20 Sept 2024 for decision of Public Prosecutor,” said Mathe.
The well-known influencer later thanked Mathe for responding and clarifying the merits of the case.
“Thank you, sis, and all SAPS members who have stepped in and provided all the information and background,” he wrote.
Other users remained hostile and they even resorted to labelling Mathe as “arrogant”.
Mathe was not fazed and continued with her work.
Another user asked what procedure is followed before a case is withdrawn.
Another user responded and said: “Before you can withdraw the case, the NPA sends both parties to counselling which is facilitated by prosecution.
“After the social worker is satisfied, she then sends the statement/portfolio of evidence to the court, and the case is then withdrawn by the prosecutor.”
The Star
ntombi.nkosi@inl.co.za