Domestic abuse during the lockdown period

Domestic violence is a widespread problem in our society today. Over the years, we have heard of many cases and seen how some of them have led to tragic deaths.

In a county such as ours, lone with a high rate of gender-based violence, this lockdown period can either be a wonderful time for certain families, or a nightmare for some. For some individuals it is a catch 22- “I am not safe indoors. I am not safe outdoors. So where do I go?”

Police Minister Bheki Cele has previously warned South Africans that during this period, we would see a possible escalation in gender-based violence cases. He has reported that the police have in fact received gender-based violence complaints during the first week of the 21-day national lockdown.

Under Regulation 11A of the Regulations published in Government Gazette No. 43148, matters relating to domestic or gender-based violence fall under the category of essential services and will be attended to on an urgent basis during the lockdown period. This was further solidified under the directives issued by the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services in Government Gazette No. 43167. In terms of the directives, citizens will be allowed to apply for interim domestic violence and harassment protection orders respectively. This means that during this time, legal practitioners will be allowed to assist their clients in matters related to domestic abuse.

We also direct our clients to the following emergency lines that are operational during this period for anybody who needs assistance.