The Limpopo Department of Social Development says it is concerned about the increase in rape cases in Thohoyandou in the Vhembe district.
The Thohoyandou police station has recorded the highest number of rape cases in the province, in the latest crime statistics.
The police station is also one of those that recorded the highest numbers of rape cases countrywide.
Spokesperson for Social Development in the province, Witness Tiva says, “The statistic are painting a very grim picture about the violation of the rights of people we described as vulnerable. The fact that some [of] these rape cases are happening among people who know each other, it then means that government civil society as well as our NPO partners needs to join hands in terms of ensuring that we have localised awareness campaign, targeting individuals community members and members of households.”
Meanwhile, Police Minister Bheki Cele says it is a disgrace and deeply disturbing that almost 10 000 people were brutalised by crime in a space of three months.
Cele was reacting to statistics that show an increase of 4.7% in sexual offences cases.
The minister presented crime statistics for the second quarter period from 1 July to 30 September.
According to the latest stats, murder increased by 20.7% and assault by 2.1%.
Cele says there were 2 000 kidnappings reported during the period under review.
He says the increase in sexual offences cases is of serious concern.
Police Minister Bheki Cele presents the latest crime statistics:
