By Ann Zulu
POLICE in Kafue have arrested three suspects in
connection with the video depicting a woman being physically and sexually
assaulted by a group of men.
Police Deputy Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed
the development today.
Man beating woman
Mr. Hamoonga said the three suspects were in police
custody, but however indicated that police were still pursuing the man who
assaulted her.
“We are holding three suspects in connection with
the video showing a woman being inhumanely treated and assaulted, but we are
still pursuing the man who assaulted her by way of kicking her, investigations
are on-going,” Mr. Hamoonga.
Meanwhile, the women’s movement has urged the Zambia
Police to deal with all cases of reported Gender Based Violence (GBV) with
expediency, efficient and professionalism.
Women and Law in Southern Africa, Zambia (WLSA)
Board Chairperson Priscilla Chileshe appealed to police to hasten the
investigations and bring to book all perpetrators of the violence.
Ms. Chileshe said it was sad to note that in spite
of all the efforts made by Women’s movement towards ending GBV, the vice had
continued go on unabated.
She was speaking at a joint press briefing in Lusaka
today to awaken the women to rise up against the increasing violence
against women and girls.
“The
intensity of the violence and impurity with which the violence is committed is
very shocking and painful. The video depicting a woman being physically and
sexually assaulted by a group of men is something which is very unfortunate and
of great concern to all of use.
“Such acts and behaviors are against the laws of
our country, the law should not spare anyone found wanting. We expect the law
enforcers to do their work diligently and investigate all cases of sexual
harassment, intimidation and all other forms of GBV,” Ms. Chileshe said.
And speaking earlier, Non-Governmental Organizations Coordinating
Council (NGOCC) Board Chairperson Sarah Longwe implored government to step up
and empower survivors of GBV.
She said survivors of such violence needed financial help, urging government to include the GBV funding on the national budget.
“Government should come in and support GBV funding in
full force and budget it, as much as they budget for the roads, then we shall
see thing changing. Such women need to be helped,” Ms. Longwe said.
And World Vision Zambia National Director Chikondi
Phiri who is also an advocate for GBV against women called
on men in the country to desist from abusing women, but rather instead show love and
compassion towards them.
Mr. Phiri noted that men had a huge role to play in
ending GBV against women and girls.
“It is very
important that as men, we provide the needed support to women and girls,
instead of abusing them. Women are special; they are our mothers, sister,
aunties and daughters. Real men do not beat women,” Mr. Phiri said.
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