“We are outraged and seriously concerned about the reports of the abuse and killing of women and children in some parts of the country. We are especially extremely concerned that in most cases, these attacks occur in the hands of family members or in the case of women, their intimate partners,” said Zuma.
“The nation must forge a united front with the law enforcement authorities, government and all sectors of society in fighting this appalling scourge and isolate these criminals in society but within the ambit of the law.”
Declared
The president said that violence against women had been declared a priority crime by government.
“Many perpetrators were being caught and are given long jail terms because of the cooperation of the public by coming forward with information,” he said.
He urged victims of violence not to be intimidated and to report the perpetrators to the police to ensure that the law took its course.
“Victims should not turn a blind eye to violence in their intimate relationships, at home, work or at school, but should immediately report perpetrators’ incidents to authorities before such abuse intensifies and leads to murder,” said Zuma.