What to do in case of a rape

Update

GEORGE NEWS - Sexual offences in our area are a concerning reality and something we can't turn a blind eye to.

Despite a high conviction rate nationally, sexual offences in the greater George have increased, with a shocking 437 cases reported in the last financial year compared to the 347 cases the previous year.

According to Regional Communications Manager of the National Prosecuting Authority in the Western Cape, Eric Ntabazalila, 282 sexual assault offences in the George area were registered with the police from 1 April to 31 October this year.

Of these offences, 67% (188 cases) were enrolled in court, of which 105 cases were finalised. This gives a 73% conviction rate of court-enrolled rape cases in the area.

With this in mind and 16 days of activism for no violence against women and children in full swing, it is important to know what you should do if you are a victim of a sexual offence:

• Try not to panic;

• Common sense is your best defence;

• You cannot always defend yourself. Your resistance may cause serious injury;

• If the attacker is dangerous, cooperate and try to negotiate - submission is not consent;

• Try and remember what the attacker looks like. Age, race, height, hair colour, scars, tattoos, clothes, voice, jewellery etc;

• Scream, yell, blow your whistle or run away if you possibly can;

• Report the crime at your nearest police station right away or phone 10111;

• Do not wash yourself immediately afterwards.