“There are many police officers who are dedicated and do not deserve the criticism that has been thrown at them like the last few weeks. Unfortunately the public never get to know about these officers”, were the words of Lizel Van Eeden, project manager at Matla A Bana, an organisation working with abused children.
This charity today (22 Feb 2013) honoured 16 police officers, mainly based at the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences units, for exceptional service at the Matla A Bana Gauteng Incentive Awards. Highest honours was given to the man who was responsible for putting a serial rapist and killer behind bars. Warrant Officer Peet Du Toit had to trace 87 witnesses from cases as old as 2008 in order to secure the arrest and successful conviction of Johannes Steyn, or the Sunday Rapist as he is known. It was his commitment together in partnership with senior state prosecutor, Carina Coetzee, that secured five life sentences and an additional 170 years. Carina also received an award at this event.
It was clear that women can also make a huge contribution in the fight against crime. Captain Van Rooyen, based in Orlando, was acknowledged for her investigation skills that resulted in the arrest of Booi and Rodgers Makhubela. Together these two were responsible for 16 rapes and several violent robberies and kidnappings. They were sentenced to 23 life sentences and 391 extra years in jail. The Cartonville FCS unit received the award for the best unit in Gauteng.
A highlight was a special award handed over to Col Paul Van Eeden. This police officer, who is based at the Gauteng provincial office, undertook the challenge to drive more than 2000 kilometres, to 9 provinces in 24 hours. With this effort he raised more than R 100 000 for abused children.
Well known business personality and guest speaker at the event, Venete Klein, made the media responsible for sharing the news of these police officers and their dedication to ensure public safety with the public. She stated that South Africa needed more good news stories in order to regain trust in the systems and the country. Major General Toaie, head of Gauteng detectives, told the guest what dedication it takes from a police officers to investigate the rape and abuse of children. Detectives are often severely traumatized and need the support.
The rape of Anene Booysen created a national outcry and the legal justice system was on the receiving end. Harsher sentencing and even the death sentence were demanded by many. It is clear that the public is not aware of successes when it comes to rape and abuse convictions. It is however very clear that harsh sentencing will not be a deterrent. It is the responsibility of the public to expose those perpetrators in their communities.
Matla a Bana would like to thank our loyal sponosors for this event: Grain Care Trust, Massmart, Kleininc Management consultants, Clearwater Mall, Cajees Clearwater Mall, Build a Bear Sandton City, Grayston Townlodge, Courtyard Sandton, Katherine str City Lodge, Servamus, Alice Art Gallery, Afrique Boutique hotel, Rosebank Union Church, Roman’s Pizza and Rays of Hope.
WE WOULD LIKE TO HOST THIS EVENT AGAIN IN AUGUST 2013. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS THE R 30 000 STILL NEEDED FOR THIS EVENT, PLEASE CONTACT matlapr@mweb.co.za
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