Sexual offences prosecutor appears in court for GBVF charges

PROMINENT Justice4All member and gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) activist Herbert Miller has condemned the reported intimidation and brutal assault of a woman, allegedly at the hands of her partner — a State prosecutor working in the sexual offences unit.

Miller expressed concern that the accused was receiving preferential treatment, claiming that he was not arrested despite allegedly pointing and discharging a firearm.

“Bail should have been denied for this act of GBVF. The accused is still working and has not been suspended. Meanwhile, the complainant fears for her life and has fled Kimberley for her safety.

"Suspects, regardless of their occupation, should be prosecuted equally,” said Miller.

He added that he intended to raise the matter with the Galeshewe SAPS station commander.

“If the complaint is not taken seriously, we will escalate the matter to the SAPS provincial commissioner and the national commissioner,” said Miller.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed this week that State prosecutor Charles Mbewe appeared in the Kimberley District Court on July 1 following allegations that he assaulted and threatened his partner during the weekend of June 28-29 in Galeshewe.

NPA regional spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane indicated that the accused handed himself over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and was not taken into custody through a formal arrest.

"This process was facilitated to ensure co-operation with law enforcement," he explained.

Senokoatsane added that Mbewe was released on bail of R1,000. The matter has been postponed to August 11 for further investigation.

“The prosecutor faces charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) and pointing a firearm. The matter is being handled within the legal framework, and the investigation is ongoing under the direction of the police.”

Senokoatsane stressed that all suspects are prosecuted without favour, regardless of their professional status.

“The NPA reiterates its unwavering commitment to the rule of law. The fact that a prosecutor has been brought before the courts is a clear demonstration that the NPA prosecutes without fear, favour, or prejudice. Court processes must be allowed to run their course without interference.”

He added that the NPA was addressing the matter internally in accordance with applicable labour prescripts.

“We will not comment further on employer-employee matters at this stage. The NPA is acutely aware of the sensitivities surrounding gender-based violence and wishes to assure the public that it takes such allegations seriously.

"The rights and safety of victims remain a priority, and the State will act in accordance with the law at every stage of the judicial process,” said Senokoatsane.