NATIONAL NEWS - Public comment is requested as the Western Cape Police Ombudsman (WCPO) embarks on an investigation into allegations pertaining to the inability of police officers to provide adequate victim support at police stations.

This comes after the Ombudsman received a complaint from a non-government organisation.

According to Deidré Foster, WCPO spokesperson, the complaint alludes to allegations that victims experience secondary trauma when they approach the police station, often having to wait for hours or being forced to speak to police officers in public.

"Further allegations include members not being adequately trained to deal with victims of crime, and officials not knowing or understanding the national directives on victim empowerment of the South African Police Service," Foster said in a statement.

Public comment requested
"We urge all concerned and affected citizens to contact our office to share their experiences. We ask that when communicating to our office, you include as much information as possible," said Foster.

She asks that specific reference be given to date, time, police station, police members involved, case number and brief comments about the alleged incidents. Due to the nature of this investigation, the comments may be submitted anonymously. The closing date for public comment is 17 April.

Comments may be submitted to ombudsman@wcpo.gov.za. For more information contact the WCPO on 021 483 0669.

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