KwaZulu-Natal women who lay charges of domestic violence and then withdraw them could face prosecution this festive season, provincial minister for safety and security Bheki Cele said on Thursday.
Unveiling his festive-season security strategy, Cele said domestic violence usually increases considerably during this time, and women who withdraw charges could themselves be charged with defeating the ends of justice.
”There are places of safety. We can’t allow anyone to stay in these situations [of domestic violence],” he said.
He said mothers should stop being part of the crime of domestic violence because they do not know where to go.
He said the state has a responsibility to protect women once they have laid charges, and that women should not ”disturb the processes” once a charge has been laid.
Cele said at least 8 000 additional police officers will be deployed around the province, particularly at so-called hot spots.
The additional personnel are support staff who usually work in offices and new members who are expected to graduate in the next few days.
Police reservists have been brought in and the number of people taking leave has been minimised.
He said security planning for the festive season started months ago in the form of joint plans between the police, the South African National Defence Force, metro police, the road traffic inspectorate and other government agencies.
The joint operations will include intensive air, foot, vehicle and horse patrols.
Rapid response teams will also be placed at strategic places to deal with any kind of situation. Security at tourist destinations will be beefed up and massive roadblocks have already been set up throughout the province to prevent an influx of firearms. — Sapa