Free State police spokesperson Thandi Mbambo said the 36-year-old was allegedly shot in the head by her former boyfriend on Tuesday (18/8). The 40-year-old suspect was later fatally wounded during a shootout with police.

This comes after a 22-year-old women was allegedly shot and killed by her boyfriend in Bohlokong on Sunday (16/8), while a 44-year-old woman was allegedly killed in Welkom a day later.

On 9 August, a woman was allegedly shot and killed by her boyfriend at Matwabeng near Senekal before he allegedly took his own life.

Free State social development spokesperson Thembile Nqabeni said the department is deeply concerned by every incident of violence against women, particularly violence perpetrated by someone who is close to the victim.

He added any cluster of alleged intimate partner killings in a short period is a matter of serious concern and requires close attention from all stakeholders.

“Intimate partner violence does not necessarily begin with physical violence, it can also involve controlling behaviour, threats, intimidation, economic abuse, and social or physical abuse.”

Nqabeni said signs of abuse can include things like excessive jealousy, possessiveness, controlling who a partner sees and where they go. Others can include monitoring their phone, and isolating someone from family and friends.

He also warned that victims and those around them should take threats and other warning signs seriously and seek assistance before situations become life-threatening.

“We as community members need to look at this because they are indicators of potential danger and patterns.”

Mbambo said the police place emphasis on identifying repeat offenders, threats, and breaches of protection orders, amongst others. These cases are subject to appropriate policing and investigative interventions, while continuing to strengthen collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including the justice system and victim support structures.

“As Free State police, we continue to appeal to victims, families and communities not to remain silent when they become aware of domestic or intimate partner violence. Early reporting can provide an opportunity for intervention before a situation escalates,” said Mbambo.

Nqabeni said early reporting can create an opportunity to protect the victim before it escalates. “People should not wait until there is serious physical violence before seeking help.

People experiencing abuse can seek assistance from the department of social development, police, health services or other appropriate support organisations, Nqabeni said. The department also works with civil society organisations to support victims and combat GBV.

The department currently has six shelters and a safe house in the Free State for victims of gender-based violence, he added.

OFM News/Siyakhowa Mbatyazwa sm

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