THE Department of Social Development has expressed shock at allegations of rape in the KwaHlabisa Police Station premises recently.
In a statement released on Wednesday, 30 March, the department alleged that a woman had an argument with her boyfriend, who forced her to leave the house. The woman approached the police to plead for rescue.
“A police vehicle was dispatched to fetch her the following day. Unfortunately, while she was in the station, it is alleged that one officer started harassing her, demanding sex. He allegedly stopped when he saw a fellow officer approaching them. When he went back to the car, the officer left in the community service centre forced the woman to sleep with him,” the statement read.
The department alleged that cops threatened to shoot the victim should she scream or report the rape case.
On Tuesday, 29 March, the victim took to Nongoma community radio station, where she asked for help as she was severely traumatised.
Reacting to allegations, Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza said it was disappointing that people who were mandated to protect victims ended up inflicting more pain.
“Such officers are an embarrassment to our society and must be treated as the criminals they are. Our social workers will help the victim open a case, and we will see to it that the matter is thoroughly investigated by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate. In the meantime, police management should take action against the accused officers,” she said.
Khoza said she would be in contact with Provincial Transport, Community Safety and Liaison MEC Peggy Nkonyeni and Minister Bheki Cele to intervene.