The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has welcomed the deployment of the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) specialised Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit to bolster investigations into the alleged rape of a 7-year-old girl in Matatiele.
Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane expressed deep appreciation for what he called a “decisive and timely” intervention by national SAPS. He said the deployment demonstrates the seriousness with which both national and provincial authorities are treating the case, which has caused outrage across the province and the country.
“We are deeply grateful to the SAPS for recognising the gravity of this situation and for deploying the expertise of the FCS unit to the Eastern Cape,” said Premier Mabuyane. “This demonstrates a strong commitment from national SAPS to support our provincial efforts in ensuring justice for the young victim and holding the perpetrator accountable.”
The FCS unit is a nationally mandated task team with expertise in handling sensitive cases involving children and victims of sexual violence. Their experience and specialised resources are expected to bring critical support to the ongoing investigation.
According to the Premier, the deployment of the unit is a “significant step” in the fight against gender-based violence in the Eastern Cape, particularly in safeguarding vulnerable groups such as women and children.
Premier Mabuyane confirmed that he remains in contact with the child’s family and has extended personal support, particularly to the mother of the victim. “We want to assure the family, the community of Matatiele, and the broader Eastern Cape that we are taking this matter with the utmost seriousness,” he said. “The deployment of the FCS unit is a clear indication of government’s commitment to ensuring a thorough, sensitive, and effective investigation.”
The provincial government has pledged full support to the SAPS team and is calling on community members to cooperate fully with authorities to ensure justice is swiftly served.
For further information or interview requests, members of the media may contact Ms Yonela Dekeda at 083 378 0968 or the Government Spokesperson, Khuselwa Rantjie, at 081 028 8841.
Quan Dambuza
pondolandtimes.co.za
