The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) requested urgent intervention by the Free State Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, following a horrific attack on a 60-year-old woman in Bothaville.
According to media reports, she was brutally attacked with a hammer and axe, and was possibly sexually assaulted. She was taken off the ventilator on Wednesday and allowed to gradually regain consciousness.
Despite claims that eyewitnesses identified a suspect, the Bothaville police have made no arrests and are reportedly waiting to interview the victim before proceeding.
If the identity of the suspect is indeed known, this delay is unacceptable, and sends a dangerous message to victims and communities.
The Free State is notorious for being the province with the highest rape rate in South Africa, with the latest figure standing at nearly 24 per 100 000 women.
Early in 2025, a further 4% increase in sexual violence and attempted femicide was recorded, making the province one of the most dangerous places for women in the country.
Government rhetoric about combating violence against women is meaningless if the police fail to act after heinous attacks. Actions speak louder than words
The Freedom Front Plus herewith expresses its deepest condolences to the victim and her family, wishing her all the best for the long road to recovery. The party will keep applying pressure to ensure that justice prevails.
