Cabinet condemns GBVF as 13 women killed in Gauteng, says Ntshavheni

Cabinet has strongly condemned gender-based violence and femicide in the aftermath of 13 women being killed in Gauteng, following a series of murders in Ekurhuleni. Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni joined the nation in mourning the brutal murders of nine women across Ekurhuleni, raising the total of women killed in Gauteng to 13.

Cabinet welcomed the arrest of four individuals in connection with three of the murders, who remain in custody after being denied bail in three court appearances.

Ntshavheni emphasized the need for a multifaceted societal response, urging men, families, communities, and the broader public to join efforts in preventing such crimes. She stressed that femicide, especially when committed by loved ones or close acquaintances, cannot be tolerated by any society. Cabinet welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa's directive for a multidisciplinary investigation team, led by the South African Police Service, to swiftly arrest and prosecute those responsible for the killings. The investigation continues as the team pursues several leads.

Ntshavheni stressed that the government has amended laws to impose harsher penalties for gender-based violence and femicide crimes, including provisions allowing for denied bail. The country is committed to promoting women's security and well-being, ensuring communities are safe for women and children. Cabinet also urged anyone with information about crimes to report it to the police, with calls directed to Crime Stop at 086 00 10111 or the 24-hour Gender-Based Violence Command Centre at 0800 428 428.

The Minister for Social Development and the Minister for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities will brief Cabinet on calls received through these support mechanisms.