A rise in the number of gender-based violence (GBV) cases in Mmadinare has spurred the police and the community into action. In a shocking revelation, the police have registered 102 GBV cases in the months of May, June and July in the Mmadinare policing area.
This according to Mmadinare Police Station Commander Superintendent Moathodi Makumula was a serious concern for such a small village, particularly for children who grow up around these kind of social ills.
“This type of trauma is often transferred from one generation to the next,” said a concerned Makumula.
He further highlighted a worrying trend, noting that Assault Common consistently remains the most frequently reported offense. Data from the past three months also shows that rape cases are among the incidents reported. Makumula specifically pointed to a notable increase in defilement cases during June, emphasizing the gravity of the situation, particularly concerning minors.
“This worrying trend calls for urgent community involvement, especially from parents and guardians, to protect our children and report any suspicious behavior,” he urged.
In response to these alarming statistics, the top cop and his troops sprang into action in a proactive move meant to stop the ‘cancer’ from spreading any further. They recently launched a social club in an effort to strengthen community relations, and to further develop strategies to support GBV victims.
The club’s primary mandate, as outlined by Superintendent Makumula, is two-fold: to forge stronger bonds between law enforcement and the community, and to develop strategies that provide meaningful support to victims of GBV.
Makumula said the initiative seeks to foster trust and collaboration between police and residents, promoting a safer environment where gender-based violence can be more effectively addressed.
“When victims perceive law enforcement as supportive partners rather than distant authorities, they are more likely to overcome fear and stigma to come forward and seek help. This improved trust can lead to a significant increase in reported cases, which is vital for policy formulation and resource allocation,” added Makumula.
This localized effort in Mmadinare reflects broader national calls for community participation and multi-sectoral coordination in combating GBV. It also demonstrates how a victim-centered and community- integrated approach to law enforcement can be successfully implemented at the local level.
