Tzaneen: As South Africa marks the 26th anniversary of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, we highlight the remarkable contributions of our men and women in blue who go beyond the call of duty to protect women and children. Today, we introduce the nation to Detective Sergeant BD Mthombeni who is based at the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Tzaneen, Limpopo. Sergeant Mthombeni has spent the past decade dedicated to investigating gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) cases.
According to South African Police Service, to date, Mthombeni secured 10 life terms and 65 years imprisonment for 14 sexual predators. Over his 10 years in service, Sergeant Mthombeni has developed resilience, flexibility, and enhanced investigative skills. He attributes his success to perseverance, patience, and efficient resource utilisation provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The state has equipped him with essential tools, including a lap
top for managing and updating case documents on the Case Administration System (CAS), and a motor vehicle, which enables him to expedite investigations effectively, explains Sergeant Mthombeni. One of Sergeant Mthombeni’s core principles is ensuring that victims of GBV feel supported throughout the investigative process. He works tirelessly to prevent victims from withdrawing charges, often explaining the potential dangers of allowing perpetrators to remain unpunished.
He investigates the reasons behind withdrawals, and if he finds evidence of undue influence, he liaises with the control prosecutor to keep the charges active. In cases involving minors or elderly women, the Director of Public Prosecutions decides based on the merits of the case. Sergeant Mthombeni believes in the power of teamwork and partnerships to address GBVF. He emphasises that collective actions are key to ending GBVF and highlights the importance of partnerships in creating a safer South Africa. Together, they must challenge negative s
ocial norms and behaviours that perpetuate gender-based violence.
He also encourages collaboration with other stakeholders to ensure a holistic approach to victim support and case resolution. Understanding the importance of teamwork, Sergeant Mthombeni frequently advocates for a cooperative approach among his colleagues. He notes that teamwork increases the likelihood of solving cases and aims to set an example for newly recruited detectives by sharing his experience and skills with them.
To maintain his mental and physical resilience, Sergeant Mthombeni prioritises regular exercise and encourages his colleagues to do the same. He urges both his colleagues and the public to take a stand against GBVF. He stresses the need to challenge cultural practices that perpetuate gender inequalities and abuse and to report all incidents of rape and abuse, especially those involving vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. He calls on everyone to become part of the solution and act
now to break the cycle of violence and abuse.
Join SAPS in celebrating the work of dedicated officers like Detective Sergeant Mthombeni, whose unwavering commitment to justice inspires hope for a safer, more equitable South Africa.